Fruit And Pasta Salad
A refreshing fruit and pasta salad combining juicy oranges, crisp apples, and tender pasta, perfect for a light, colorful, and nutritious snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely shred enough orange peel to make 1/2 teaspoon; set aside.
- Remove the remaining peel from the orange and section the orange over a bowl to catch the juice.
- Measure 2 tablespoons of the orange juice.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked and drained tiny bow tie pasta, chopped apples, yogurt, salt, orange peel, and orange juice.
- Mix well to combine and serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup into the yogurt. You can substitute the tiny bow tie pasta with any small pasta shape, such as macaroni or ditalini, to suit your preference. This salad is also a great option for a picnic or potluck.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant fruit and pasta salad as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile option for any meal. You can also enjoy it alongside a slice of Mary'S Jam Cake for a delightful dessert combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld nicely, making it taste even better the next day. Avoid reheating this salad, as it is best enjoyed chilled. If it seems dry after storage, add a splash of orange juice to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Pasta Salad contains roughly 49 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as berries, mango, or pineapple to suit your taste. Just make sure to balance the flavors with a bit of acidity from citrus fruits for a refreshing finish.
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this fruit and pasta salad is perfect for vegetarian recipes. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a nutritious and filling option for anyone following a vegetarian lifestyle.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of the regular tiny bow tie pasta. There are many options available that mimic the texture and taste of traditional pasta, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).