Pasta Salad Recipe
Pasta salad is such an easy addition to any gathering–any season. It most reminds me of spring and summer, but no holiday in my family is complete without pasta salad–and we’ve never had a Thanksgiving without this salad on the table. I’m going to admit, though, that I am a snob when it comes to what I deem to be an acceptable pasta salad. I just have a hard time enjoying it if it’s not my mama’s dish. Over time, I’ve developed my own style of making it, but the foundation remains the same. But really, how different or complicated can pasta salad really be? I’ve been asking myself this same question when I taste other salads. All I know is that I receive compliments anytime I bring this simple dish to gatherings.
⏱️ 25 mins
12 Servings
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 1/3 c onion, diced
- 16-18 oz grape or cherub tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 2.25 oz can sliced black olives, drained (if needed)
- Approximately 10-12 oz Italian dressing (I used Kraft Zesty)
- Approximately 1 tbsp Salad Supreme seasoning, or to taste
Steps
- Salt and boil water in a medium saucepan. Once water has reached a rolling boil, add pasta. Stir occasionally. Once cooked to al dente, remove from heat and drain.
- While waiting for water to boil, prep all remaining ingredients. Add ingredients to a large bowl or container.
- Once pasta has been cooked and drained, add to bowl of ingredients. Stir well. If using a lid with a container, secure the lid and shake vigorously to incorporate all ingredients.
- Place in refrigerator until ready to serve. Prior to serving, add additional dressing if pasta has dried out, and stir well.
There are so many different ingredients that you can add to your salad. Traditionally, it’s often served with pepperoni and cheese cubes, but I prefer mine without. I’ve even ingredients such as feta or garbanzo beans used. If you like it, throw it in there! Whatever you do, don’t skimp on your dressing–no one wants a dry pasta salad! If you’re making it ahead of time, you may need to add some additional dressing into the bowl to freshen it up before it hits the serving line.
