Keto No Pasta Pasta Salad (Antipasta-Style)

By: Rabia

All the bold, zesty flavors of Italian pasta salad — but without the pasta! This fresh and colorful bowl swaps noodles for crisp zucchini and cucumber, tossed with salami, cheese, and olives in Italian dressing. Light, low-carb, and totally delicious.

📝 Recipe Card

Servings & Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 15 minutes

  • Yield: 4 servings

Dietary Badges
✅ Low-Carb
✅ Gluten-Free
✅ Keto-Friendly
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly

Ingredients

  • Zucchini, shredded

  • Cucumber, shredded

  • Red onion, chopped

  • Red & orange bell peppers, chopped

  • Olives (black or green, halved)

  • Salami, sliced or cubed

  • Mozzarella pearls

  • Parmesan cheese, shredded

  • Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Prep vegetables: shred zucchini and cucumber; chop onion and peppers.

  2. In a large bowl, combine all veggies with olives.

  3. Add salami, mozzarella pearls, and Parmesan.

  4. Toss with Italian dressing until well coated.

  5. Chill 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve cold.

Notes

  • Squeeze excess liquid from shredded zucchini and cucumber to prevent sogginess.

  • Use turkey pepperoni or grilled chicken for a lighter protein option.

  • Homemade Italian dressing (olive oil + vinegar + herbs) tastes best.

🌟 Introduction

Who needs noodles when you can have all the fresh crunch and savory goodness of antipasta? This no-pasta pasta salad is perfect for low-carb eaters or anyone who wants a lighter twist on the classic Italian side dish.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Base

Shred zucchini and cucumber. Pat dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture.

2. Add the Good Stuff

Mix in bell peppers, red onion, olives, salami, mozzarella pearls, and Parmesan.

3. Dress & Toss

Drizzle with Italian dressing. Toss gently until everything’s coated.

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4. Chill & Serve

Rest in fridge for 15 minutes to let flavors mingle. Serve as a side or light main dish.

🧾 Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Veggies → Add artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.

  • Protein → Swap salami for prosciutto, pepperoni, or chickpeas for vegetarian.

  • Cheese → Mozzarella pearls + Parmesan are classic; feta adds a tangy twist.

  • Dressing → Any Italian vinaigrette works; creamy Caesar also pairs well.

🍽 Variations & Serving Ideas

  • Keto Power Salad → Add avocado and extra olives.

  • Vegetarian Version → Omit salami and add roasted chickpeas.

  • Meal-Prep Jars → Layer salad in mason jars with dressing on bottom, veggies in middle, cheese and salami on top.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with grilled chicken or steak.

  • Serve as a potluck side dish.

  • Enjoy as a refreshing summer lunch.

🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Store: Refrigerate up to 3 days.

  • Make-Ahead: Best eaten within 24 hours (veggies stay crisp).

  • Tip: Keep dressing separate until ready to serve if storing longer.

⚖️ Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~280 kcal

  • Protein: 15 g

  • Carbs: 8 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

✅ Low-carb
✅ High in protein & healthy fats

❓ FAQs

Q: Will the zucchini and cucumber make it watery?
A: Yes, unless you pat them dry or salt lightly to draw out moisture before mixing.

Q: Can I use spiralized veggies instead of shredded?
A: Definitely! Zucchini or cucumber “noodles” give it a pasta-like look.

Q: Is this a full meal?
A: With the salami and cheese, it’s filling enough for lunch or dinner, but it also shines as a side.

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💬 Personal Note

This dish always gets laughs when I say it’s my “no pasta pasta salad” — but one bite and everyone’s hooked. It’s fresh, satisfying, and the perfect balance of salty, tangy, crunchy, and cheesy.

Rabia
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