Vibrant Italian Pasta (or Antipasto) Salad (Keto & Low-Carb Option!)

Vibrant Italian Pasta (or Antipasto) Salad (Keto & Low-Carb Option!)

Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Italian Pasta (or Antipasto) Salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This versatile dish combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and crisp bell pepper, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Choose traditional bow-tie pasta for a classic salad, or opt for crisp-tender cauliflower for a delicious low-carb and keto-friendly version!

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5-15 minutes (depending on pasta/cauliflower choice) Chill time: 2 hours minimum

Ingredients:

• 4 cups bow tie pasta, cooked and cooled (for traditional) OR 4 cups cauliflower florets, cut into 1-inch pieces (for low-carb/keto)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mozzarella cubes (fresh mozzarella pearls or cubed block mozzarella)
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup Eat’s Italian Dressing (KETO NOTE: Verify this brand is sugar-free/low-carb, or use a certified keto Italian dressing)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment:

• Large pot (for pasta) OR microwave-safe bowl (for cauliflower)
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Instructions:

1. Prepare Base (Pasta OR Cauliflower):
   • For Pasta: Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and then rinse with cold water until completely cool. Set aside.
   • For Cauliflower (Keto/Low-Carb Option): Place the 1-inch cauliflower florets in a microwave-safe bowl with ¼ cup water. Cover the bowl (with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap) and microwave for 3-4 minutes, or until the cauliflower is crisp-tender. You do not want it to be too soft, or it will fall apart in the salad. Drain any excess water thoroughly and then rinse with cold water until completely cool. Set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled prepared pasta or cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cubes, black olives, sliced pepperoni, diced green bell pepper, and fresh basil.
3. Add Dressing:
   • If using pasta, add 1 cup of Eat’s Italian Dressing.
   • If using cauliflower, add only ½ cup of Eat’s Italian Dressing.
   • Add salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined and coated with the dressing.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Adjust & Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and add more dressing if needed, depending on your preference. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification

• High Protein: Moderate to high protein from mozzarella, pepperoni, and potentially the dressing.
• Low-Carb: Yes, if using cauliflower and a keto-friendly dressing. Traditional pasta makes it high-carb.
• Keto: Yes, if using cauliflower and a keto-friendly dressing.
  • Cauliflower: Excellent keto base.
  • Mozzarella, Olives, Pepperoni, Bell Pepper, Cherry Tomatoes, Basil: All keto-friendly.
  • Eat’s Italian Dressing: This is the most critical ingredient for keto compliance. Many commercial Italian dressings contain significant added sugars. It is essential to verify that “Eat’s Italian Dressing” is sugar-free or to recommend a known keto-friendly brand (e.g., Primal Kitchen, Tessemae’s) or a homemade keto Italian dressing.
• Gluten-Free: Yes, if using cauliflower, and if the chosen Italian dressing is certified gluten-free. (Traditional pasta is not gluten-free).