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Big Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

Big Easy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta combined with fresh, crisp vegetables and a flavorful dressing. It’s an easy-to-make salad that is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, offering a delightful medley of textures and tastes all in one bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or any bite-sized pasta

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drain well.
  2. Mix vegetables and dressing: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and celery. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano until smooth.
  3. Combine and chill: Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture, then pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything gently until well coated. Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • For best taste, prepare the salad ahead and chill for several hours or overnight.
  • You may substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Add cooked diced chicken or ham for a protein boost.
  • Adjust the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
  • If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the vinegar slightly.

Keywords: pasta salad, easy pasta salad, picnic salad, summer salad, cold pasta salad, vegetable pasta salad

Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/big-easy-pasta-salad-recipe/