Quick Pasta Salad
Description
This Quick Pasta Salad is always a crowd-pleaser, especially at BBQs and potlucks. Packed with fresh vegetables and complemented by a unique dressing, it’s the perfect side dish that can be prepared ahead of time. It’s ideal for feeding a large group and offers a healthy, low-cholesterol option. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or as part of a summer feast, this pasta salad is sure to be one of the first dishes to disappear. The dressing is what sets it apart from other pasta salads, providing a delightful twist on a classic.
Recipe Category:
Spaghetti
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours (chill time)
Total Time:
4 hours 30 minutes
Recipe Servings:
16 servings
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel hair pasta | 12 oz |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium |
| Broccoli florets | 1 1/2 cups |
| Carrots | 1 1/2 medium |
| Celery | 1 stalk |
| Sliced ripe olives | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 1 clove |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 3 tbsp |
| Salad dressing (your choice) | 1 – 1 1/4 cups |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 186.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 9.2 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.6 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 2.8 mg |
| Sodium Content | 263.9 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 21.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 1.7 g |
| Sugar Content | 4.2 g |
| Protein Content | 5 g |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by preparing the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, chop the tomatoes into small chunks, cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces, and slice the carrots and celery into thin pieces. Mince the garlic finely. Place all these vegetables into a very large mixing bowl. -
Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss them together gently to ensure an even distribution of pasta and veggies. -
Add Dressing:
Pour your choice of salad dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Be sure to use a dressing that complements the flavors of the salad. A creamy or vinaigrette dressing would work perfectly. -
Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything again to ensure the seasoning is well-distributed. -
Garnish:
Sprinkle fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the salad. Give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the garnishes. -
Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill. The salad needs at least 4 hours, but you can leave it overnight for the best flavor. Stir the salad before serving to refresh the dressing and ensure everything is well-mixed. -
Serving Tips:
If you’re storing the salad for more than 8 hours before serving, you may need to add extra dressing to keep the salad moist. Before serving, give the salad a final stir, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions:
This Quick Pasta Salad is perfect for large gatherings like BBQs, picnics, or holiday celebrations. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish. You can also modify the vegetables to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Variations:
- Add protein: To make the salad more substantial, you can add some grilled chicken, turkey, or even shrimp.
- Change the dressing: Try switching up the dressing with a creamy ranch, tangy Italian, or a zesty vinaigrette for different flavor profiles.
- Make it more colorful: Add bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions for extra crunch and color.
This versatile pasta salad can easily be customized to suit various tastes, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. It’s easy, nutritious, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
