Whole-grain pasta salad with mackerel

Fiber-rich whole-grain pasta with mackerel for balanced digestion.

Whole Grains Fiber Rich High Protein
88%

General Gut Health Match

This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.

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Recipe description

This whole-grain pasta salad with mackerel pairs fiber-rich pasta with protein and healthy fats from fish. The dish provides a simple, balanced option that fits into everyday eating and may support gentle digestion. Its fiber from whole grains helps nourish a diverse gut-friendly microbiome when combined with a variety of foods across meals. Easy to prepare, it’s a practical, satisfying meal for busy days, aimed at supporting regular eating patterns without sacrificing flavor.

June 25, 2026
Whole-grain pasta salad with mackerel
Prep 15 min Cook 12 min Easy

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Why this recipe fits you

  • Rich in fiber from whole-grain pasta.
  • Includes protein and omega-3 fats from mackerel.
  • Balanced combination supports satiety and gut-friendly digestion.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
80
🍇 Polyphenol density
40
🧬 Diversity support
60
🛡️ Inflammation support
75
🫧 Fermentation support
0
⚖️ Blood sugar stability
75

Ingredients

Pasta, whole grain
2 cup
Pasta, whole grain
Mackerel
1 piece
Mackerel
Oil, olive
2 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Bell Pepper
1 piece
Bell Pepper
Cherry tomatoes
1 cup
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
0.5 piece
Cucumber
Parsley
1 tablespoon
Parsley
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon
Lemon juice
Salt
0.5 teaspoon
Salt
Black pepper
0.25 teaspoon
Black pepper

Instructions

1

Cook whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2

Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool.

3

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced mackerel, chopped bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber.

4

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

5

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

6

Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition

460 kcal Calories
25 g Protein
58 g Carbohydrates
8 g Fiber
4 g Sugar
14 g Fat
2.5 g Saturated fat
1.0 g Salt

FAQ

What are the main health benefits of this whole-grain pasta salad with mackerel?
It pairs fiber-rich whole-grain pasta with protein and healthy fats from mackerel, supporting fullness, steady energy, and gut health when eaten as part of a varied diet.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No. It uses whole-grain pasta, which contains gluten. You can substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.
Does it provide omega-3 fatty acids?
Yes. Mackerel adds omega-3 fats; the amount depends on the portion you serve.
How long does it take to prepare?
About 20–30 minutes total (cook pasta, mix in veggies and fish).
How should I store leftovers?
Cool quickly and refrigerate within 2 hours; use leftovers within 2–3 days.
Can I use canned mackerel?
Yes. Canned mackerel works well; choose in oil or water, and drain before mixing.
What are good substitutions for different diets?
For a non-fish option, use legumes (e.g., chickpeas) or tofu; add more vegetables for fiber.
What portion size should I aim for?
A typical serving is roughly 1 cup cooked pasta with toppings, plus the fish; adjust to appetite.
Is it safe during pregnancy or for people with fish allergies?
If you have a fish allergy, avoid it. For pregnancy, eat fish in moderation and follow local guidelines on mercury; choose low-mercury options and consult a clinician if unsure.

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