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A colorful lunchbox pasta salad, perfect for kids' meals.

Proven way to grow Lunchbox Pasta Salad (Kids)

This fun and healthy lunchbox pasta salad is packed with colorful veggies and a light dressing, making it a perfect, easy-to-pack meal for kids. It's a proven way to get them to enjoy their lunch!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad
  • 2 cups Pasta e.g., rotini, penne, or macaroni uncooked
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Cucumber diced
  • 1 cup Bell peppers various colors, diced
  • 1 cup Cooked chicken or ham optional, diced
  • 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese cubed
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Airtight containers

Method
 

Prepare Pasta
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Chop Vegetables and Protein
  1. While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and optional chicken/ham into kid-friendly bite-sized pieces. Cube the cheddar cheese.
Make Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and protein. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before packing into lunchboxes.

Notes

For best results and flavor, prepare this pasta salad ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour before packing. You can easily customize it with your child's favorite vegetables or proteins!