Hot Dog Pasta Salad Recipe: A Quick and Kid-Friendly Dish
If you’re in search of a simple yet delightful recipe that combines the classic flavors of hot dogs with the satisfying texture of pasta, look no further than this Hot Dog Pasta Salad. This easy dish is not only a hit at family gatherings and potlucks but also makes for a wonderful weeknight dinner option that the kids will adore. The original version of this recipe had been nestled quietly in my recipe archives for quite some time, and I finally decided to breathe new life into it. After experimenting with a few modifications, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days or warm summer evenings.
This recipe is especially appealing to young palates, so if you’re serving it to little ones, be sure to cut the hot dogs into smaller pieces—not just circles—to eliminate any choking hazards. Let’s dive into the details of this fun, colorful, and satisfying dish!
Ingredients
Here is a comprehensive list of the ingredients you will need to prepare the Hot Dog Pasta Salad, along with their quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Macaroni | 6 ounces |
| Hot dogs | 5 links |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Yellow mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Green onions (chopped) | ⅓ cup |
| Yellow onion (diced) | 1 medium |
Nutritional Information
Before you get cooking, here’s a brief look at the nutritional content of this delectable salad. Each serving provides a balanced mix of flavors and nutrients:
| Nutritional Content | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 478.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 27.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 37.5 mg |
| Sodium | 992.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 46.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 6.7 g |
| Protein | 12.4 g |
Instructions
To create this delightful Hot Dog Pasta Salad, follow these simple steps that will guide you through the cooking process, ensuring that you achieve a delicious and visually appealing dish:
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the macaroni according to the package directions, ensuring that it reaches the perfect tenderness. Generally, this will take about 7 to 10 minutes, but always refer to the package for specific instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
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Prepare the Hot Dogs: While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the hot dogs. Choose your preferred cooking method: grill, boil, or pan-fry them until they are heated through and slightly browned. Once cooked, allow them to cool just enough to handle, then slice them into circular pieces. If you’re making this salad for young children, be sure to cut the circles into halves or quarters to minimize choking hazards.
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Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing will add a delightful tangy flavor that brings all the components of the salad together beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and the sliced hot dogs. Next, add the chopped green onions and the diced yellow onion to the bowl. These fresh ingredients will contribute a lovely crunch and flavor contrast to the dish.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta, hot dogs, and vegetables. Using two large spoons, gently toss the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the creamy dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to keep the integrity of the pasta and hot dog slices.
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Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours, or longer if you prefer. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
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Serve: Once you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing, and then spoon it into bowls or onto a serving platter. This Hot Dog Pasta Salad is now ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
This Hot Dog Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed during summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or as a quick weeknight meal. With its appealing combination of pasta and hot dogs, it’s sure to become a favorite among kids and adults alike. Plus, the ease of preparation and short cooking time means you can whip it up whenever you need a satisfying and delightful dish that brings smiles to the table. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply for a weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is bound to impress!
Enjoy Every Bite
Embrace the nostalgic comfort of hot dogs with a fresh twist, and share this unique pasta salad with your family and friends. Don’t forget to make those necessary adjustments for the little ones, and remember, the joy of cooking is in the love and care you put into every meal. Enjoy!
