Nothing makes me feel more like a super-mom than opening my pantry door and whipping up an impromptu dinner with items I already have on hand. Some days are so full, I forget to meal plan – but that’s when being smartly saves the day. I must admit, most of these last-minute meal decisions involve pasta, but I’ve recently learned that there’s a more wholesome way to be prepared in the pasta department. I’ve teamed up with Barilla to share an easy, yet tasty pasta recipe that also happens to be very kid friendly (mom-win!). Pizza Pasta Salad , using Barilla ProteinPLUS Farfalle Pasta, can be served as a side-dish, but’s it’s hearty enough to be a perfect main course on a warm evening.

The idea of eating pizza in any form other than by the slice, is so hilarious to Iris that she usually cleans her plate. It’s also a recipe that’s easy to get her involved with. From picking the fresh basil, to combining all the ingredients, Iris loves to help out in the kitchen.

Available at Walmart, Barilla ProteinPLUS isn’t your typical pasta. it’s a good source of lean protein from a simple blend of egg whites, grains, lentils and chickpeas. Barilla ProteinPLUS provides 17g of protein (per 3.5oz portion) from all natural vegetarian ingredients. Not to mention, it’s a good source of Fiber and ALA Omega-3. Ingredients aside, Iris loves it (as do I) and Barilla’s wholesome pasta line-up doesn’t stop there. Barilla Whole Grain Pasta and Barilla White Fiber Pasta are all options that as a mom I can feel good about. Barilla Gluten Free pasta has even recently been named one of Parents Magazine’s “Top 25 Allergy Free Foods”.

Now on to the recipe!

Ingredients:
1 package of Barilla ProteinPLUS Farfalle Pasta
1 (5 oz) package of mini pepperoni
1 (8 oz) package of mini mozzarella balls
1 cup of cherry tomatoes
1 bell pepper
3/4 cup of parmesan cheese
1 (2.25 oz) can of sliced black olives
7-10 fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup your favorite Italian dressing
salt & pepper to taste

Directions:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
– While your water is heating, wash and prep the fresh veggies (roughly chop the fresh basil, medium dice the bell pepper, & slice the cherry tomatoes)
– Boil pasta until al-dente, approximately 10 minutes
– Let pasta cool, add back to the pot and combine with other ingredients
– Serve at room temperature or chilled

For more ideas on using Barilla Pasta, visit the recipe section on their website and Pinterest for more inspired dishes. And be sure to check out Barilla on Ibotta for some savings too!

This is a paid post, however all opinions are my own.