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Overhead shot of vibrant healthy pasta salad with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.

Healthy Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Recipe with a Flavorful Twist

Discover a vibrant and nutritious Healthy Pasta Salad with a unique marinated tomato twist. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or any gathering, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying dish bursting with complex flavors. Chill overnight for best results.
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Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 6 ounces uncooked short pasta (like rotini)
Vegetables
  • 10 ounces cherry tomatoes (cut in half) (about 2 cups)
  • 2/3 cup jarred roasted red pepper diced (or 1 fresh red bell pepper)
  • 1 large green bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1/2 cup sliced olives
Protein
  • 4 ounces turkey pepperoni sliced in quarters (use 1 can chickpeas to keep it vegetarian)
Cheese
  • 4 ounces fresh mini mozzarella cheese balls (I use the pearls)
Dressing & Seasoning
  • 3 tbsp reserved pasta water
  • 1 2/3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (that’s 1 tbsp + 2 tsp)
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2-1 tsp kosher salt
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional if you like some heat)

Equipment

  • small saucepan
  • Small bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Mason jar

Method
 

Step 1: Cook Pasta & Marinate Tomatoes
  1. Begin by boiling your chosen pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Reserve 3 tablespoons of the starchy pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks and cools, halve your cherry tomatoes and place them in a small bowl. Marinate them with a splash of balsamic vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of salt for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or a mason jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the 3 tablespoons of reserved pasta water. Whisk vigorously or shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and emulsified into a creamy dressing.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
  1. Once your pasta has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the beautifully marinated cherry tomatoes (including any accumulated juices from their bowl), diced roasted red pepper, chopped green bell pepper, sliced olives, sliced turkey pepperoni (or chickpeas), and the fresh mini mozzarella cheese balls. Pour the prepared dressing over all the ingredients and gently mix everything together until all the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
  1. For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least a few hours, or ideally, overnight. When you take it out, the colors will be even more vibrant and the aroma will be incredibly inviting.

Notes

This Healthy Pasta Salad is perfect for make-ahead meals and gatherings, with flavors that deepen overnight. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning before serving, especially salt levels, as ingredients like pepperoni and olives can vary. The marinated tomatoes are key to its unique flavor twist. Keep pasta al dente and cool completely before mixing to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.