Introduction
If you love pasta salad but want to stay true to your keto lifestyle, this recipe is perfect for you. Traditional pasta is loaded with carbs, which makes it a no-go on a low-carb or keto diet. But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up the creamy, flavorful joy of a pasta salad. With the right ingredients, you can enjoy a refreshing, tasty salad that looks and feels like pasta but without the carbs.
This “no pasta” pasta salad is quick, simple, and super satisfying. Instead of noodles, we use low-carb vegetables that mimic the texture of pasta. The result? A colorful, crunchy, and creamy salad that you can enjoy as a main dish or side dish. Even better, it’s easy enough to make in under 20 minutes! Let’s dive into how you can make this keto-friendly treat at home.
Ingredients – Keto No Pasta Pasta Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your quick keto no pasta pasta salad:
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized or cut into thin strips to mimic pasta)
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced thin)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup black olives (sliced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup cooked chicken or turkey (optional, for protein)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Keto No Pasta Pasta Salad
Step 1: Prepare the veggies
- Wash the zucchini and use a spiralizer or a sharp knife to cut them into noodle-like strips. These will serve as your “pasta.”
- Slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Cook the protein (if using)
- If you want extra protein, cook your chicken or turkey breast. Dice it into small cubes once it cools.
Step 3: Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the salad
- In a large bowl, add your zucchini noodles, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, shredded cheese, and cooked protein.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything until well coated.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor.
- Chill for 10 minutes before serving if you want it extra refreshing.
That’s it! Your quick keto no pasta pasta salad is ready to enjoy.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Net Carbs | 4 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a few hours before serving. Just keep it in the fridge and toss it again before eating.
Q2: Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely. You can try cauliflower, broccoli, or even hearts of palm pasta as low-carb alternatives.
Q3: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter taste.
Q4: Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, but it’s best eaten within 2 days to keep the veggies fresh and crunchy.
Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?
Of course! Just skip the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Final Thoughts
This quick keto no pasta pasta salad proves that you don’t need real pasta to enjoy a classic favorite. With zucchini noodles and fresh, colorful veggies, you get the same texture and taste without the carbs. Plus, the creamy dressing ties everything together for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Whether you’re making it for lunch, a family gathering, or a summer picnic, this keto salad is sure to impress. It’s healthy, filling, and takes just minutes to prepare. So, the next time you’re craving pasta salad, give this low-carb version a try—you’ll love how delicious and guilt-free it is!
