Catalina Pasta Salad π₯
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 8
Description:
Great for any hamburger supper or pot luck dinner. This pasta salad is a hit, especially for those who aren’t big fans of vinegar-based ones. It’s a recipe that’s been requested time and time again at family gatherings, and rightfully so! This recipe makes quite a bit, so you might want to adjust the quantities for smaller gatherings. It’s absolutely wonderful! π
Ingredients:
- 1 box tri-color spiral pasta
- 1 cup Miracle Whip
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 1 cucumber
- 1-2 cups cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Boil Pasta: Cook the tri-color spiral pasta according to the package directions. |
| 2 | Add Carrots: If using baby carrots, add them to the pasta pot about midway through cooking. |
| 3 | Prepare Peas: Place the frozen green peas in a large colander, then dump the cooked pasta and carrots on top. Let it all drain. |
| 4 | Prep Carrots: Once the carrots have cooled, slice them in half lengthwise. |
| 5 | Mix Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, peas, and carrots. |
| 6 | Add Dressing: Mix in Miracle Whip and Catalina dressing until everything is moistened. |
| 7 | Adjust Taste: Sorry, no exact measurements here! You’ll need to taste and adjust the dressing until you find your perfect balance. Some prefer more Catalina, some more Miracle Whip. It’s up to you! |
| 8 | Chill: I like to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving. |
| 9 | Add Veggies: Prior to serving, add the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers to the salad. |
| 10 | Adjust Again: After chilling, you might find the salad needs a bit more Catalina or Miracle Whip. Taste and adjust as needed. |
| 11 | Avoid Watery Salad: If making ahead, hold off on adding the cucumbers and tomatoes until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming watery. |
| 12 | Get Creative: Feel free to switch up the vegetables to your liking! |
Nutrition Facts per Serving:
- Calories: 33
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 40.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.2g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Protein: 2.1g
Tips:
- For a tangier flavor, add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of freshness.
- This salad can be a complete meal on its own or a delightful side to grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Make it your own by adding in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
This Catalina Pasta Salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with flavors, colors, and a delightful mix of textures. It’s a versatile dish that suits any occasion, from picnics to weeknight dinners. Enjoy! π
