Low-Fat Cucumber Pepper Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 oz. (227g) dried pasta (such as penne or farfalle)
• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
• 3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. pepper

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced cucumbers and peppers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooled pasta to the cucumber and pepper mixture.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and cucumber mixture, and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Nutritional Information:

(Based on average values; actual nutritional content may vary)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Low-fat salad with a refreshing lemon-basil dressing.
• Creative combination of vegetables and pasta.
• Ideal for a summer meal or as a side dish.

User Comments:

1. "Love the combination of cucumber and peppers with pasta. This is a refreshing and healthy dish."
2. "The lemon-basil dressing is a great addition, gives the salad a fresh taste."
3. "This salad is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish to grilled meat or fish."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh ingredients for best results.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste preference.
• For a vegetarian option, use vegetable-based pasta.
• Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.