Under PHP200 is a series that features recipes of full meals totaling to less than PHP200 per person.

We all know that healthier diets lead to healthier bodies. But a lifestyle of balanced meals isn’t always accessible—especially when a salad costs three times more than a fast food meal. That said, it’s not impossible to eat good food. On this week’s Under PHP200, we prove that by showing you how to make a Green Pasta Salad, a dish that presents the trifecta of being 1) healthy, 2) hearty, and 3) on-budget.

Is this salad an impasta?

Sure, on paper, it looks like your average pesto pasta. But the addition of snap peas and chickpeas add a little bit more depth to it. Plus, the use of kesong puti gives it some freshness, as well as a subtle saltiness. (And we actually really love it as an alternative to your typical parm.) What’s really great about this dish, though, is that it’s delicious hot or cold. So you can choose not to microwave it in the office if you’re too lazy to walk to the cafeteria.

It only costs PHP292.14 for this two-serving recipe. That sets you back only PHP146.07 if you share it with your partner/roommate/colleague.  Though, we recommend saving the other half for yourself; just bring it to work on another day (or eat it for dinner on the same day, whatever).

*Note: The amount does not include salt in the computation, as this is a pantry staple.

Green Pasta Salad