Description
Craving a creamy pasta salad that’s satisfying, fresh, and good for you too? This Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad is your perfect go-to dish. Made with whole grain pasta, crisp veggies, and a light, tangy yogurt-based dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, meal prep, or a quick lunch on the go. It’s everything you love about pasta salad—just smarter and lighter.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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2½ cups cooked whole wheat or chickpea pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
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½ cup shredded carrots
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¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
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¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
For the Creamy Dressing:
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: 1–2 tbsp water to thin, if needed
Optional Add-Ins:
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1 cup grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas (for extra protein)
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Feta cheese crumbles
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Avocado chunks
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Roasted corn or peas
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
4. While pasta cools, prep your vegetables: halve tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, chop onion and shred carrots.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add a splash of water if needed to thin it to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and olives.
8. Pour the dressing over and toss everything until well coated.
9. Stir in fresh herbs and any optional add-ins like protein or cheese.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
11. Serve chilled, and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of pepper if desired.
Notes
Use Whole Grain Pasta – Adds fiber and keeps you full longer.
Cool the Pasta – Prevents soggy salad and helps the dressing stick.
Balance the Flavors – A touch of honey balances the tangy yogurt.
Make Ahead – It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Add Protein – Turn it into a meal with chicken, chickpeas, or eggs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired – Healthy Side Dish