Aunt B’s Pasta Salad
This vibrant and flavorful pasta salad is the perfect go-to dish for a quick meal or a side at your next cookout. With its delightful mix of fresh vegetables, savory deli meats, and creamy cheeses, this salad can easily stand as a satisfying meal or complement any main course. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ, a family gathering, or just a quick weeknight dinner, Aunt B’s Pasta Salad is bound to become a family favorite, with everyone always asking for the recipe!
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Deli ham | 1 cup |
| Cucumber | 1/2 cup, diced |
| Purple onion | 1/2 cup, diced |
| Tomatoes | 1/2 cup, diced |
| Celery | 1 cup, chopped |
| Black olives | 1/2 cup, sliced |
| Broccoli florets | 1/2 cup |
| Colby-Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Provolone cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded |
| Pasta (any shape) | 1 lb (about 4 cups cooked) |
| Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Note: Nutritional information is based on a serving size of 1 cup, serving yield is approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 986.3 kcal |
| Fat | 51.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 26.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 176.5 mg |
| Sodium | 2644.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 72.9 g |
| Fiber | 4.9 g |
| Sugar | 9.1 g |
| Protein | 56.1 g |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside to cool. This ensures the salad doesn’t become too warm when you add the other ingredients. |
| 2 | While the pasta is cooling, prepare the vegetables and deli meats. Dice the cucumber, purple onion, tomatoes, and celery into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice the black olives, and cut the broccoli into small florets. Cube the deli ham into small pieces. |
| 3 | Now, shred the three types of cheese (Colby-Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and provolone). The cheese should be evenly distributed throughout the salad for a nice, creamy texture. |
| 4 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced vegetables, olives, broccoli, cubed deli ham, and shredded cheeses. Toss them together gently, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly mixed. |
| 5 | In a separate bowl, prepare the Italian dressing according to the instructions on the bottle, or use your favorite homemade recipe. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, making sure to coat everything thoroughly. |
| 6 | Stir the salad well to distribute the dressing evenly. You may want to add more dressing to taste if it seems too dry. |
| 7 | Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will meld together, creating a refreshing and delicious salad. |
| 8 | Serve chilled as a standalone meal or as a perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats, sandwiches, or other BBQ favorites. Enjoy! |
Why You’ll Love Aunt B’s Pasta Salad
- Versatile & Customizable: This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Add or swap in any vegetables, cheeses, or meats you prefer. Some great additions include bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, so it’s an excellent option to prepare in advance for parties or picnics.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its combination of savory, fresh, and creamy ingredients, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Tips & Variations
- Add Protein: To turn this salad into a complete meal, consider adding cooked chicken breast, turkey, or even grilled shrimp.
- For Extra Crunch: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Vegan Version: To make a vegan version, swap the cheeses for plant-based options, and use a dairy-free dressing.
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes to the salad.
Aunt B’s Pasta Salad is one of those recipes you’ll make time and time again. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal with your family. Enjoy the crisp veggies, creamy cheeses, and tangy dressing, and watch as everyone asks for the recipe!
