Donna’s Macaroni And Veggie Salad

Create a pasta salad with any shaped macaroni and add a variety of colorful fresh vegetables, beans, and olives.

8 ounces macaroni, tortellini or other pasta of your choice 1 medium cucumber, finely chopped 6 medium radishes, finely chopped 2 medium zucchini, finely chopped 1 medium red onion, finely chopped 1 cup broccoli florets 1 cup cherry tomatoes 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (15 ounces) black olives, drained 1 cup chopped fresh basil

Dressing1/2 cup fat-free chicken broth 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon dried basil 2 teaspoons sugar salt and pepper to taste

In a large saucepan, cook pasta in salted boiling water just until al dente. Drain and chill under cold running water. Place in a large bowl. Add all vegetables, beans, olives, and basil.

In a small food processor, combine dressing ingredients. Pour over macaroni and vegetables. Stir to mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Note: choose any pasta shape of your choice and any variety of fresh vegetables.

Serves 8

Nutritional Information per serving: Calories 300 Fat, gm. 12 Protein, gm. 8 Carbs, gm. 40 Cholesterol, mg. 0 Fiber, gm. 5