Pasta Salad Recipes

Pasta Salad Recipes

Pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with fresh vegetables, proteins, and flavorful dressings. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. With so many variations, pasta salad can cater to many tastes, making it a beloved choice for gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

This pasta salad recipe is not only easy to make, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients and adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Whether you like it creamy or tangy, loaded with veggies or packed with protein, this recipe allows for all that and more. Plus, its vibrant colors and textures make it an appealing dish at any table.

How to Make Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 12 oz small shell pasta
• 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
• 2 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/3 cup dill pickles, chopped
• 12 oz imitation crab meat, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/3 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 16 oz rotini pasta
• 13 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 large red onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• 1 1-oz Hidden Valley Dressing Mix
• 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 10 oz summer sausage, sliced
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 3.8 oz black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz mozzarella pearls
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup Italian dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 16 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups baby dill pickles
• 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup sweet yellow onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion
• 4 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup dill pickle juice
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp chipotle powder
• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 oz yellow kernel corn, drained
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 jalapeno, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
• 3/4 cup avocado dressing
• 2 large avocados, diced
• 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
• Lime wedges for serving
• 12 oz dry rotini pasta
• 1 tbsp + 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups mini cucumbers, diced
• 1 cup red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup orange bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup yellow bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh minced basil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta with the rest of the ingredients as per individual recipes for each salad.
3. For each salad, mix well and let chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

How to Serve Pasta Salad

Pasta salad can be served cold or at room temperature. It’s great on its own or as a side dish. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish before serving.

How to Store Pasta Salad

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about three to five days. If the salad contains creamy dressings, be aware that the texture may change slightly upon refrigeration.

Tips to Make Pasta Salad

• Use a mix of pasta shapes and colors for a fun presentation.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings before serving.
• Make it a day ahead for the best flavor as it allows the ingredients to meld together.
• If you prefer a lighter option, use a yogurt-based dressing instead of mayonnaise.

Variation

Feel free to swap out any veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even switch to a vegan dressing for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well in this recipe and adds extra fiber.

2. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead helps the flavors develop more fully.

3. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or an oil-based vinaigrette are great alternatives if you’re looking to reduce calories or change up the flavors.

4. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta in the recipe and ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

5. Can I add proteins like chicken or shrimp?
Yes, adding cooked chicken or shrimp is a fantastic way to add more protein to your pasta salad!