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Mexican Pasta Salad

Mexican Pasta Salad
Mexican Pasta Salad

This Mexican Pasta Salad blends tender pasta, colorful vegetables, zesty seasonings, sour cream, and Canadian cheddar for a creamy, flavorful dish. The sour cream adds a smooth tang, while the cheddar brings a rich, savory finish with a hint of boldness.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Yield 1 serving
Meals in a Jar Collection

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    414 Calories

  • Protein

    18 g

  • Carbohydrate

    41 g

  • Fat

    22 g

  • Fibre

    7.8 g

  • Sodium

    577 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    24 % / 316 mg

  • Folate

    53 %

  • Selenium

    53 %

  • Phosphorus

    27 %

  • Vitamin C

    26 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

  • SALAD DRESSING

    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) sour cream
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) salsa (mild, medium or hot)
  • VEGETABLES AND FRUIT

    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced avocado
    • 4 cherry tomatoes halved
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced English cucumber
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) frozen corn kernels
  • PROTEIN

    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) cubed Canadian Cheddar
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) canned mixed beans (reduced sodium) rinsed
  • GRAINS AND GREENS

    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) cooked fusilli pasta

Preparation

  1. Make the salad dressing.
  2. Prepare the salad fixings.
  3. Place all the ingredients in a jar in the following order: 
    • Salad dressing
    • Firm vegetables and fruit (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, corn, celery, apple, grapes)
    • Soft vegetables and fruit (avocado, mushrooms, orange) 
    • Protein
    • Grains and greens 
  4. Cover tightly with the lid and refrigerate. Keeps up to 2 days. 
  5. When it’s time to eat, simply toss and enjoy!

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Orange Poppy Seed Salad

Orange Poppy Seed Salad
Orange Poppy Seed Salad

This Orange Poppy Seed Salad combines juicy oranges, crisp greens, creamy Greek yogurt, and mild Canadian mozzarella for a fresh and vibrant dish. The yogurt-based dressing adds a light tang, while the mozzarella brings a soft, milky texture that perfectly complements the citrus flavors.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Yield 1 serving
Meals in a Jar Collection

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    315 Calories

  • Protein

    14 g

  • Carbohydrate

    26 g

  • Fat

    19 g

  • Fibre

    4.4 g

  • Sodium

    237 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    26 % / 335 mg

  • Vitamin C

    61 %

  • Vitamin B12

    50 %

  • Folate

    33 %

  • Riboflavin

    29 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

  • SALAD DRESSING

    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 tsp (5 mL) poppy seeds
    • 2 tsp (10 mL) maple syrup
    • 2 tsp (10 mL) orange juice
    • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) orange zest
  • VEGETABLES AND FRUIT

    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced green apple
    • 1 celery stalk diced
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) orange segments
  • PROTEIN

    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) grated Canadian Mozzarella
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped pecans
  • GRAINS AND GREENS

    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) baby spinach

Preparation

  1. Make the salad dressing.
  2. Prepare the salad fixings.
  3. Place all the ingredients in a jar in the following order: 
    • Salad dressing
    • Firm vegetables and fruit (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, corn, celery, apple, grapes)
    • Soft vegetables and fruit (avocado, mushrooms, orange) 
    • Protein
    • Grains and greens 
  4. Cover tightly with the lid and refrigerate. Keeps up to 2 days. 
  5. When it’s time to eat, simply toss and enjoy!

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Salad
Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish. The Greek yogurt adds a tangy, protein-rich twist to the classic creamy dressing, while the cheddar brings a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables. It’s a simple, nutritious side that’s great for gatherings, meal prep, or adding more veggies to your plate.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Yield 1 serving
Meals in a Jar Collection

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    356 Calories

  • Protein

    16 g

  • Carbohydrate

    23 g

  • Fat

    24 g

  • Fibre

    3.1 g

  • Sodium

    311 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    29 % / 381 mg

  • Vitamin C

    73 %

  • Selenium

    36 %

  • Vitamin B12

    32 %

  • Zinc

    29 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

  • SALAD DRESSING

    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 tsp (5 mL) honey
    • 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) white vinegar
  • VEGETABLES AND FRUIT

    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped red onion
    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) halved grapes
  • PROTEIN

    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) cubed Canadian Cheddar
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped pecans
  • GRAINS AND GREENS

    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) broccoli florets

Preparation

  1. Make the salad dressing.
  2. Prepare the salad fixings.
  3. Place all the ingredients in a jar in the following order:
    • Salad dressing at bottom
    • Firm vegetables and fruit (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, corn, celery, apple, grapes) over the salad dressing
    • Soft vegetables and fruit (avocado, mushrooms, orange)
    • Protein
    • Grains and greens
  4. Cover tightly with the lid and refrigerate. Keeps up to 2 days.
  5. When it’s time to eat, simply toss and enjoy!

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Pasta and Edamame Salad

Pasta and Edamame Salad
Pasta and Edamame Salad

A fresh and satisfying pasta and edamame salad tossed with creamy Canadian Havarti or Canadian Medium Cheddar, adding a rich, savoury finish to every bite.

Preparation time 10 minutes
Yield 6 servings

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    343 Calories

  • Protein

    17 g

  • Carbohydrate

    28 g

  • Fat

    19 g

  • Fibre

    4.8 g

  • Sodium

    208 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    18 % / 235 mg

  • Folate

    111 %

  • Selenium

    42 %

  • Magnesium

    25 %

  • Phosphorus

    25 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 3 cups (750 mL) frozen edamame defrosted or green peas
    • 3 cups (750 mL) cooked orecchiette or other short pasta
    • 3 tbsp (45 mL) olive oil
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) white balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar
    • Zest of a lemon finely grated
    • 2 stalks of celery diced finely
    • 7 oz (200 g) cherry tomatoes quartered
    • 5 oz (150 g) Canadian Havarti cheese or Canadian Medium Cheddar cheese diced
    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) fresh basil thinly sliced
    • chili powder to taste (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together gently and season to taste.

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Squash and Feta Penne Rigate

Squash and Feta Penne Rigate
Squash and Feta Penne Rigate

A comforting penne rigate tossed with tender roasted squash and tangy feta, creating a simple, flavourful dish that’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Preparation time 25 minutes
Cooking time 15 minutes
Yield 6 servings

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    410 Calories

  • Protein

    15 g

  • Carbohydrate

    67 g

  • Fat

    9 g

  • Fibre

    4.8 g

  • Sodium

    270 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    14 % / 187 mg

  • Selenium

    104 %

  • Folate

    103 %

  • Thiamin

    62 %

  • Vitamin C

    48 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 2 cups (500 mL) butternut squash in ¾” cubes
    • 2 cups (500 mL) halved cherry tomatoes
    • 8 large sage leaves chopped
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
    • 2 medium-size zucchinis in ¾” cubes
    • 1 lb (454 g) penne rigate or other short pasta
    • 5 oz (150 g) Feta crumbled
    • 1 garlic clove minced
    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) chopped fresh basil
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix together squash, tomatoes, sage, 2 tsp (10 mL) olive oil. Season to taste. Cook on a baking sheet in the oven for 15 minutes. In the same bowl, mix the zucchini 1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil and season to taste. Cook on a baking sheet in the oven for 10 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside 1⁄3 cup (80 mL) of the cooking water. Drain cooked pasta and mix with all the other ingredients, including the reserved cooking water.

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Quinoa, Cheddar and Apple Salad

Quinoa, Cheddar and Apple Salad
Quinoa, Cheddar and Apple Salad

A fresh and satisfying quinoa salad with crisp apples and diced Cheddar cheese, offering a perfect balance of hearty, crunchy, and savory flavors.

Preparation time 25 minutes
Cooking time 15 minutes
Yield 4 servings

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    397 Calories

  • Protein

    17 g

  • Carbohydrate

    38 g

  • Fat

    20 g

  • Fibre

    5.6 g

  • Sodium

    496 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    22 % / 283 mg

  • Magnesium

    49 %

  • Folate

    46 %

  • Phosphorus

    38 %

  • Vitamin E

    38 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) sodium-reduced vegetable broth
    • 1 cup (250 mL) quinoa
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) white balsamic vinegar
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) Dijon mustard
    • 4 oz (120 g) Cheddar cheese diced small
    • 1 apple with skin, diced small, drizzled with a little lemon juice
    • 2 stalks celery, diced small
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) chives, chopped on the diagonal
    • 1/3 cup (80 mL) roast almonds, coarsely chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Rinse quinoa in cold water. Drain. In a medium-size saucepan, add broth, stir in quinoa, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10 minutes. Transfer quinoa into a bowl to cool.
  2. Add oil, vinegar and mustard, season to taste and mix well with quinoa. Add the Cheddar, apple, celery, and chives and mix well. Sprinkle with the chopped almonds and enjoy.

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Lentil, Kale and Feta Salad

Lentil, kale and Feta salad
Lentil, kale and Feta salad

This Lentil, Kale and Feta Salad combines hearty lentils, crisp kale, and tangy Feta for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish. Fresh, satisfying, and full of texture, it makes a perfect wholesome lunch or side.

Preparation time 20 minutes
Cooking time 1 hour
Yield 6 servings

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    395 Calories

  • Protein

    19 g

  • Carbohydrate

    39 g

  • Fat

    19 g

  • Fibre

    6.4 g

  • Sodium

    392 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium

    17 % / 224 mg

  • Folate

    120 %

  • Thiamin

    40 %

  • Zinc

    36 %

  • Vitamin B12

    32 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 1 cup (250 mL) dried brown lentils
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
    • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) mustard seeds
    • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) cumin seeds
    • 1 tsp (5 mL) garam masala
    • Salt and freshly ground pepper
    • 1 medium lemon zest and juice (optional)
    • 2 large kale leaves chopped
    • 1 cup (250 mL) cherry tomatoes halved
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) roasted cashews
    • 1 small red onion finely chopped
    • 1 cup (250 mL) crumbled Canadian Feta

Preparation

  1. In a saucepan, bring lentils and 8 cups (2 L) water to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook for 45–60 minutes or until tender. Drain and let cool.
  2. To make salad dressing, heat oil on medium heat in a skillet. Cook mustard and cumin seeds, garam masala, salt and pepper for 15 seconds. Let cool and add lemon zest and juice, if desired.
  3. In a large bowl, toss to combine lentils, kale, cherry tomatoes, cashews, onion, Feta and salad dressing. Serve.
Bulb

You can use canned lentils; drain and rinse before adding to the rest of ingredients.

Cheese alternatives: Diced Canadian Bocconcini, Cheddar or Havarti

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Mexican Squash and Bean Salad

Mexican Squash and Bean Salad
Mexican Squash and Bean Salad

Sweet squash and black beans simmered with chili, oregano and tomatoes on top of crispy greens make for a satisfying and tasty main course salad with the bonus of plenty of fibre. The zesty lime yogurt dressing and cheese complement this dish perfectly. For added crunch, make some baked tortilla chips to add on top of the salad or as a side.

Preparation time 20 minutes
Cooking time 25 minutes
Yield 4 servings

Nutritional information

  • Per serving

  • Energy:

    342 Calories

  • Protein:

    19 g

  • Carbohydrate:

    43 g

  • Fat:

    13 g

  • Fibre:

    12.6 g

  • Sodium:

    411 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium:

    27 % / 349 mg

  • Folate:

    119 %

  • Vitamin A:

    83 %

  • Thiamin:

    75 %

  • Vitamin C:

    64 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter
    • 1 small onion chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic minced
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) chili powder
    • 1 tsp (5 mL) dried oregano
    • Salt and pepper
    • 1 1/2 cups (375) diced (1/2 inch/1 cm pieces) fresh or frozen butternut squash thawed
    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) water
    • 1 1/2 cups (375) canned no-salt-added diced tomatoes with juice
    • 1 cup (250 mL) cooked or drained and rinsed canned unsalted black beans
    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) frozen corn kernels thawed
    • 2 small corn or whole wheat tortillas
    • 1/2 to 1 tsp (2 to 5 mL) grated lime zest
    • 1 1/2 tbsp (22 mL) freshly-squeezed lime juice divided
    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 cup (250 mL) shredded Mozzarella
    • 8 cups (2 L) torn romaine lettuce
    • 1 cup (250 mL) cherry tomatoes cut in half
    • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, chili powder, oregano, 1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) salt and 1/4 tsp (1 mL) pepper for about 2 minutes or until onion starts to soften. Add squash and sauté for 1 minute or until onion is soft. Stir in water. Cover and boil for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in canned tomatoes, beans and corn. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and boil gently, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until squash is soft.
  4. Meanwhile, cut each tortilla into 12 thin wedges. Arrange in a single layer on prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, stir lime zest and 1/2 tbsp (7 mL) lime juice into yogurt and season with a pinch each of salt and pepper.
  6. Remove squash mixture from heat. Stir in remaining lime juice and half of the shredded cheese until melted. Season to taste with pepper and up to 1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) more salt.
  7. In a large bowl, combine half of the lime yogurt and lettuce; toss to coat. Divide lettuce among serving plates. Spoon squash mixture on top of salad and top with remaining shredded cheese and grape tomatoes. Dollop with remaining lime yogurt, top with baked tortilla chips. Sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
Bulb

To save time, look for pre-cut, peeled butternut squash in the produce section of the supermarket (you might have to cut in into smaller pieces) or diced frozen squash in bags in the frozen foods section; let it thaw and drain off excess liquid before adding to the skillet.

To cook beans from dried, you’ll need to soak 1/2 cup (125 mL) dried beans overnight, then cook according to package directions until tender. If using canned beans, you’ll need about two-thirds of a 14 oz (400 mL) can or half of a 19 oz (540 mL) can. Look for those with no salt added or as low in sodium as possible. Strain the liquid from the beans and rinse under cold, running water, then drain well.

For an extra punch of flavour, add 2 tbsp (30 mL) canned diced green chilies or drained pickled jalapeno peppers with the canned tomatoes.

If you like extra heat, use a Monterey Jack or Havarti with hot peppers and add some hot pepper sauce to the squash with the lime juice, or season to taste with hot pepper sauce at the table.

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Grilled Romaine and Pasta Salad with Cheddar

Grilled Romaine Salad with Cheddar
Grilled Romaine Salad with Cheddar

Grilled romaine salad tossed with pasta, sharp cheddar, and a creamy yogurt-milk dressing—fresh, hearty, and full of tangy flavour.

Preparation time 20 minutes
Cooking time 8 – 10 minutes
Yield 4 – 6 servings

Nutritional information

  • Per serving

  • Energy:

    292 Calories

  • Protein:

    15 g

  • Carbohydrate:

    28 g

  • Fat:

    13 g

  • Fibre:

    4.5 g

  • Sodium:

    279 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium:

    21 % / 279 mg

  • Folate:

    99 %

  • Vitamin C:

    92 %

  • Vitamin A:

    60 %

  • Selenium:

    49 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 1/2 cup (125 mL) Greek plain yogurt
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) Milk
    • 1 minced clove garlic
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) capers drained and chopped
    • Freshly ground pepper to taste
    • 3 cups (750 mL) cooked fusilli or other short pasta
    • 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) Canadian Medium Cheddar shredded
    • 2 bell peppers
    • 1 head of romaine lettuce quartered lengthwise
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil

Preparation

  1. Preheat grill to high heat.
  2. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, milk, garlic and capers. Season to taste, add pasta and half of Cheddar cheese. Reserve.
  3. Brush bell peppers and lettuce quarters with oil, then season with pepper. Cook peppers on grill for 4–5 minutes on each side and briefly grill lettuce quarters.
  4. Cut bell peppers into strips and add to pasta. Place grilled lettuce on plates, add pasta and sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese. Serve.
Bulb

As a variation, add other grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms and red onions.

Cheese alternatives: Canadian Swiss cheese, Gouda, or Mozzarella.

For more great recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Wheat Berry Salad with Dukkah

Wheat Berry Salad with Dukkah
Wheat Berry Salad with Dukkah

Everyone is cooking with whole grains these days, and wheat berries are all the rage! The berry is the entire wheat kernel – before it is ground into flour. You can buy wheat berries, cook them like any other grain, and turn them into this delicious and unusual summer salad.

Preparation time 30 minutes
Cooking time 1 hr 5 minutes
Refrigeration 1 hour
Yield 4-6 servings

Nutritional information

  • Per serving

  • Energy:

    401 Calories

  • Protein:

    15 g

  • Carbohydrate:

    40 g

  • Fat:

    22 g

  • Fibre:

    7.7 g

  • Sodium:

    390 mg

  • Top 5 Nutrients

    (% DV*)

  • Calcium:

    24 % / 311 mg

  • Selenium:

    63 %

  • Magnesium:

    40 %

  • Phosphorus:

    32 %

  • Vitamin C:

    32 %

  • *percentage of daily value

Ingredients

    • 1 cup (250 mL) wheat berries
    • 6 oz (180 g) Canadian Feta crumbled
    • 1 cup (250 mL) sliced strawberries
    • 12 large dried dates coarsely chopped
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) flat parsley leaves
    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
    • 1 tbsp (15 mL) white balsamic vinegar
    • Canadian Parmesan shavings

    Dukkah

    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) sesame seeds
    • 2 tsp (10 mL) coriander seeds
    • 2 tsp (10 mL) cumin seeds
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) hazelnuts
    • 1/4 cup (60 mL) pistachio nuts
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Cook wheat berries in a large quantity of boiling water until tender but still slightly al dente, about 55 min. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Add remaining salad ingredients including Feta and mix well. Refrigerate 1 hour.

DUKKAH

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (180 °C).
  2. In a dry pan, toast sesame seeds until golden. Transfer to a small food processor. In the same pan, toast coriander and cumin seeds until fragrant. Add to the food processor.
  3. Spread hazelnuts and pistachios on a baking sheet and bake in the middle of the oven about 5 min or until nuts are fragrant. Transfer nuts to a clean kitchen towel, fold the towel into a bundle and rub the nuts together to skin them as thoroughly as possible.
  4. Add the skinned nuts to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is blended and the nuts are in fine pieces.
  5. Serve the salad with the dukkah on the side in a small bowl with a spoon for guests to sprinkle to their taste.
Bulb

Dukkah is a blend of nuts and spices used abundantly in Egypt and elsewhere in the Middle East. People sprinkle it on salads, grilled meats and vegetables, and eat it on pita bread dipped in oil.

Keep leftover dukkah refrigerated in a tightly sealed jar.

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