Apples and Celery Pasta Salad with Light Caesar Dressing
Penne Pasta tossed with Gala apples, celery, walnuts and a lightened-up, homemade Caesar Dressing.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
For The Pasta Salad
- 2 cups low carb penne pasta
- 1 to 2 gala apples, washed and cut into cubes (leave the skins on)
- 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 cups fresh sweet baby lettuce blend, you can also use about 2 to 3 romaine hearts, chopped
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
For The Dressing
- ½ cup nonfat plain yogurt, I use Dannon
- 1½ tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon water, add more if you prefer a thinner consistency
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the directions on the box.
- Drain the pasta and let it stand under cold running water until completely cooled. Pat it dry with paper towels and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples and celery; add lemon juice and toss to combine.
- Arrange the lettuce on a large serving plate or a large salad bowl.
- Top the greens with the apples and celery mixture, walnuts, and cheese. Set aside.
- Prepare the dressing by combining all the ingredients in a blender; blend until creamy and smooth.
- Drizzle the salad dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Taste for salt and pepper and adjust accordingly.
- Serve.
Notes
- Pasta: Experiment with various shapes or whole grain options for a different texture and nutritional profile.
- Apples: Choose different apple varieties for varied flavor profiles.
- Cheese: Swap white cheddar with gouda, feta, or your preferred cheese.
- Dressing: Prepare the dressing ahead for a quicker assembly; remember to mix in just before serving to avoid a soggy salad.
- Add-ins: Customize with other salad ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers.
- Healthier Swap: Substitute regular pasta with vegetable pasta for a healthier twist.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep the salad and dressing separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
- This salad can be served as a side, a delicious lunch, an appetizer, or bring it to a potluck!
Nutrition
Calories: 192kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 10.3g | Saturated Fat: 3.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.6g | Cholesterol: 14.1mg | Sodium: 236.5mg | Fiber: 4.2g | Sugar: 6g
