Is there anything more satisfying in the summertime than a delicious, refreshing pasta salad? This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a smart choice for those watching their weight. Packed with vibrant veggies, protein-rich ingredients, and a zesty dressing, this Pasta Salad For Weight Watchers is a guilt-free indulgence. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
**Pasta Salad For Weight Watchers**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
**Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta**: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: While the pasta is cooking, chop all your veggies – cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and black olives. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. **Make the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. **Combine**: Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of veggies. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything gently to coat evenly.
5. **Chill and Marinate**: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. **Finishing Touches**: Before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley over the pasta salad. Toss lightly to distribute the toppings evenly.
7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Transfer the Pasta Salad For Weight Watchers to a serving bowl, and there you have it – a colorful, nutritious dish that will satisfy your hunger while keeping your health goals in check. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side or a main dish.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next gathering, this Pasta Salad For Weight Watchers is sure to hit the spot. The combination of wholesome ingredients, bright flavors, and the tangy dressing makes it a winning recipe that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. So, whip up a batch and savor the goodness of this delightful dish guilt-free.
