Garden Herb Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and crunchy water chestnuts, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the curly pasta noodles according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked noodles and place them in a large bowl.
- Add chopped broccoli, chopped tomatoes, sliced water chestnuts, chopped red onion, and sliced black olives to the noodles.
- Sprinkle with dill weed, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Toss everything together until well combined and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To add more flavor, consider tossing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you prefer a lighter dish, swap out the curly pasta for a whole grain or gluten-free option. For added crunch, try substituting the water chestnuts with chopped bell peppers or celery. This salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This Garden Herb Pasta Salad is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or as a light main dish. It pairs beautifully with Vickie'S Delicious Hot Mulled Cider, making it a refreshing option for gatherings. For a complete meal, consider adding some feta cheese or chickpeas for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent drying out. If serving cold, let it sit out for a few minutes to bring it back to room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Herb Pasta Salad contains roughly 72 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1764mg per serving (77% 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 make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the flavors. However, keep the olives and any crunchy vegetables separate until just before serving to maintain their texture.
What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Curly pasta noodles are great for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients. However, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or penne. For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add diced grilled chicken, shrimp, or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This will enhance the nutritional value and make the salad more filling. Just be sure to balance the flavors with additional herbs or dressing.
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).