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A vibrant low calorie summer pasta salad without mayo in a large bowl

Low Calorie Summer Pasta Salad (No Mayo)

A light and refreshing pasta salad perfect for summer, featuring fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing without any mayonnaise.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 8 ounces short pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 0.25 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped
Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to cool.
  2. While the pasta cooks, finely chop all the listed vegetables and fresh basil.
Assembly
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and fresh basil.
  3. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Serving
  1. Serve the pasta salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. This salad can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.