Fruity Nutty Pasta Salad Recipe – A Refreshing and Flavorful Meal in Minutes
This Fruity Nutty Pasta Salad is an easy, healthy, and delicious dish that can serve as a quick meal on its own or a vibrant side to complement cold chicken, turkey, or ham. Perfect for a picnic, barbecue, or lunchbox, this pasta salad combines the crisp crunch of celery and spring onions with the natural sweetness of red apple and raisins. The addition of salted peanuts adds a savory nutty flavor, while the coolness of sweetcorn kernels brings a refreshing twist. Ideal for making ahead, this salad can be stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve—just be sure to keep it under wraps to prevent anyone from sneaking a bite before the meal!
For those who enjoy a chilled version, sweetcorn can be added just before serving, as the frozen kernels will keep the salad cool while naturally thawing. The creamy mayonnaise binds everything together without being too heavy, giving each bite a smooth texture and extra richness.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side dish or a light, nutritious lunch, this Fruity Nutty Pasta Salad is sure to please.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked pasta | 4 cups |
| Celery | 2 stalks, finely chopped |
| Red apple | 1, diced |
| Spring onions | 2-3, thinly sliced |
| Sweetcorn (frozen) | 1/2 cup |
| Raisins | 1/3 cup |
| Salted peanuts | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | Generous amount (to taste) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 335.2 kcal |
| Fat | 8.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 178 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 61.4 g |
| Fiber | 10.1 g |
| Sugars | 12.6 g |
| Protein | 8.3 g |
Preparation Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, finely chopped celery, diced red apple, sliced spring onions, sweetcorn kernels, raisins, and salted peanuts. |
| 2 | Add mayonnaise to the mixture, using generous amounts to coat the ingredients evenly. Be sure not to overdo it—just enough to moisten the pasta and vegetables without making the salad too soggy. |
| 3 | Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are well combined. |
| 4 | Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together and enhances the freshness of the salad. |
| 5 | Serve chilled and enjoy the bright flavors and satisfying crunch of this quick, nutritious dish! |
Tips and Variations:
- Sweetcorn: If you’re preparing this salad for a picnic or packed lunch, consider adding frozen sweetcorn kernels just before serving. They will help keep the salad cool and fresh during transit, thawing by the time you’re ready to eat.
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken or turkey breast slices to turn this pasta salad into a hearty main dish.
- Vegan Version: To make this salad vegan, swap out the mayonnaise for a dairy-free or vegan-friendly mayonnaise alternative. Additionally, you can replace the salted peanuts with other types of nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This salad works wonderfully as a side to cold meats such as chicken, turkey, or ham. It’s also an excellent option for a light lunch on its own, especially when paired with some fresh fruit or a whole grain roll. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a casual family gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, Fruity Nutty Pasta Salad is guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Preparation time is minimal—just 10 minutes and you’re done!
- Healthy: With whole ingredients like fresh apples, celery, and nuts, this salad is a heart-healthy, low-cholesterol option that’s full of fiber and protein.
- Customizable: Make it your own by adding or swapping in different fruits, vegetables, or proteins based on what you have on hand.
- Ideal for Make-Ahead Meals: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time for busy days or picnics.
Enjoy this vibrant, fruity pasta salad that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare!
