This refreshing pasta salad combines crisp cucumbers and sweet bell peppers for a light, flavorful meal that's perfect any time of day. It's a healthy, low-calorie option that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time10 min
Total Time30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Tips For Best Results
Use fresh, firm cucumbers and bell peppers for the best crunch.
Toss the pasta with a little olive oil right after cooking to prevent it from sticking.
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.
Ingredients
0/7
Why This Dish Is Worth Trying
Light and refreshing, perfect for warm days or when you want a healthy meal without feeling heavy. The crunchy vegetables add great texture, and the low-calorie dressing keeps it guilt-free. It’s a colorful and vibrant salad that’s easy to prepare and packed with vitamins.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 8 minutes should do. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking. Give it a good drain after rinsing.
Step 2
In a big bowl, combine the cucumbers, green bell peppers, banana peppers, jalapeños, and Colby cheese. Pour in the Italian-style dressing and give everything a good mix. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until the pasta is nicely coated with the dressing.
150
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad on its own for a light lunch or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty whole-grain bread for a more filling meal.
Keeping It Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the vegetables crisp, avoid adding dressing until just before serving if you plan to store it longer. Give the salad a gentle toss before eating to redistribute the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle works well in this recipe.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
It’s best to chill it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for Colby cheese if I want a lighter option?
You can use reduced-fat mozzarella or skip the cheese to reduce calories.
Is it necessary to rinse the pasta after cooking?
Yes, rinsing cools the pasta and stops it from overcooking when mixed with the dressing.
Can I use fresh herbs or other vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely, fresh herbs like parsley or veggies like cherry tomatoes can be added for extra flavor.
How spicy will this salad be with jalapeños and banana peppers?
It has a mild to moderate spice level; you can adjust the amount of peppers to suit your taste.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
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