Healthy Whole Wheat Pasta Salad Recipe
created by
Jenna C. 09/25/2023
"Leftover pasta salad with veggies and cottage cheese and the other 1/2 of the avocado"
"Its good to see youre incorporating leftovers into your meals. Your lunch choice with leftover pasta salad veggies cottage cheese and avocado sounds like a balanced and nutritious option. Remember that making the most of leftovers can be a convenient way to ensure youre eating well-balanced meals especially when you have limited time for preparation. Keep up the good work with your meal choices!"
See commentsIngredients
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. (Approx. 10 minutes)
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and black olives.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
- Fold in the diced avocado and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Added Sugar | 0g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
Health Benefits
This Healthy Whole Wheat Pasta Salad is rich in fiber from the whole wheat pasta and fresh vegetables, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer. The cottage cheese provides lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and weight loss. This dish fits well into Mediterranean and plant-based diets, offering a balanced meal without excessive calories or unhealthy fats. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of mixed greens dressed in balsamic vinaigrette.
- Pair with a glass of sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
- Garnish with extra herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Recipe Variations and Adjustments
tuna pasta salad recipe
Add 1 can of drained tuna for extra protein.
creamy pasta salad recipe
Mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
best pasta salad recipe
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables for visual appeal.
pasta salad recipe italian
Add Italian herbs and a splash of red wine vinegar for an Italian twist.
simple pasta salad recipe
Keep it basic with just pasta, olive oil, and a few veggies.
pasta salad recipe easy
Use pre-cooked pasta and pre-chopped veggies to save time.
pasta salad dressing recipe
Create a homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
pesto pasta salad recipe
Toss in pesto instead of the cottage cheese for a flavorful alternative.
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat pasta with gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add more protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or beans for additional protein.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Allergy & Diet Restrictions
Why We Love This Recipe
We love this Healthy Whole Wheat Pasta Salad Recipe for its perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Packed with lean protein from cottage cheese and fiber from whole wheat pasta and fresh veggies, it keeps you feeling full and satisfied. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a convenient meal option, especially when you're on the go. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or a light dinner, and feel good knowing you're making a healthy choice that supports your weight loss goals.
Recipe created by Fitmate Coach; inspired by Jenna C.. It ensures the ideal combination of ingredients to support weight loss and healthy living.
Comments (2)
"Leftover pasta salad with veggies and cottage cheese and the other 1/2 of the avocado"
"Its good to see youre incorporating leftovers into your meals. Your lunch choice with leftover pasta salad veggies cottage cheese and avocado sounds like a balanced and nutritious option. Remember that making the most of leftovers can be a convenient way to ensure youre eating well-balanced meals especially when you have limited time for preparation. Keep up the good work with your meal choices!"