Welcome the taste of summer with this hearty pasta salad. It’s filled with roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in a light, healthy, and refreshing citrus dressing. Loaded with complex carbs, tangy lemon, and vitamin C, this pasta salad helps keep you healthy and hydrated during the hottest days.

Prep Time: 45 minutes | Makes 8–10 Servings

Pasta Salad Ingredients:

  • 1 lb whole wheat penne pasta
  • 2 medium yellow squash (sliced into half moons)
  • 2 medium zucchini (sliced into half moons)
  • 12 asparagus stalks chopped (white ends removed)
  • 1 large red bell pepper (seeded, chopped)
  • 1 red onion (chopped)
  • 1 small eggplant (diced)
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cup reduced-fat feta cheese crumbles
  • 1/2 Tbsp onion powder 
  • 1/2 Tbsp garlic powder 
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp Kroger Zesty Table Original Blend
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley 
  • 3/4 cup fresh curly leaf parsley (chopped)

Lemon Poppyseed Dressing Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard 
  • 2 Tbsp honey
  • 1 Tsp kosher salt
  • 1 Tbsp onion powder 
  • 1 Tbsp garlic powder 
  • 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning

Dressing Directions:

In a jar, combine all ingredients and shake until blended. Season to taste. 

Pasta Salad Directions:

Preheat oven to 450°F.

In a large bowl, drizzle the vegetables with olive oil until lightly coated, and season them with zesty table seasoning blend, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and kosher salt. Mix until blended.

On a lined baking sheet, spread vegetables evenly. Roast for 15–20 minutes, tossing halfway through. Set aside to cool. 

In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, toss pasta, vegetables, feta cheese, parsley, and dressing. Season to taste. Enjoy!

Almetria Turner is a Memphis-based wellness coach, celebrity chef, food and fitness blogger, marathoner, certified fitness instructor, RRCA certified running coach and race director, and public speaker. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram @Fitandfinallyfree and her blog at Fitandfinallyfree.com.