Best 2 Best Ever Pasta Salad Recipes

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In the realm of culinary creations, pasta salad stands tall as a refreshing and versatile dish, savored for its vibrant textures, harmonious flavors, and ability to transport taste buds to a realm of pure delight. Whether you seek a light and tangy summer staple or a hearty and comforting meal, embarking on a journey to discover the "best ever pasta salad" recipe is an endeavor that promises an explosion of flavors, a symphony of textures, and a culinary experience that will linger in your memories.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

BEST EVER PASTA SALAD



Best Ever Pasta Salad image

Yummy penne pasta recipe with cucumbers, tomatoes and seasonings. So easy it's worth a try.

Provided by ILOVETOCOOK

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 35m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 (16 ounce) package dry penne pasta
2 large cucumbers, peeled and cubed
2 roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped
2 cups mayonnaise
1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
3 tablespoons dried dill weed
2 tablespoons lemon pepper

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • Combine pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, dill weed and lemon pepper. Serve as is or chill for 45 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 537.8 calories, Carbohydrate 37.6 g, Cholesterol 26.7 mg, Fat 40.9 g, Fiber 2.2 g, Protein 7.7 g, SaturatedFat 8.4 g, Sodium 545 mg, Sugar 2.4 g

BEST EVER PASTA SALAD



Best ever Pasta Salad image

This is a recipe that my Mom has taken every where and now I do too! It makes a BIG bowl, so it is perfect for picnics and potlucks at church! I love the veggies and light dressing! You will too!

Provided by Lisa M.

Categories     Potluck

Time 28m

Yield 12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 (1 lb) box small shell pasta
1/4 lb provolone cheese
1/4 lb salami
1/4 lb pepperoni
1 green pepper
3 stalks celery
1 small onion
3 small tomatoes
1 can black olives
1 jar green olives
1 cup canola oil
1/2 cup vinegar
1 tablespoon oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to the box and drain.
  • Set aside.
  • Chop all veggies, meats and cheese into small bite size pieces.
  • Mix together the oil, ving, and spices for the dressing.
  • Combine all ingredients together and chill over night.

Tips:

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, flavorful ingredients to ensure the best taste. Choose ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and flavorful cheese.
  • Cook Pasta Perfectly: Al dente pasta holds its shape well in pasta salad. Cook it according to the package instructions, then immediately transfer it to a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • Cool Ingredients Before Mixing: Allow cooked pasta and other warm ingredients to cool completely before assembling the salad. This prevents the dressing from becoming oily and the salad from becoming soggy.
  • Choose the Right Dressing: The dressing is key to a flavorful pasta salad. Use a balanced combination of oil and vinegar or a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise or yogurt. Season the dressing well with herbs, spices, and salt and pepper.
  • Add Variety: Incorporate a variety of textures and flavors into your pasta salad. Add crunchy vegetables like bell peppers and celery, soft and creamy ingredients like avocado and boiled eggs, and salty or tangy elements like olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Let the Salad Marinate: Allowing the pasta salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight enhances the flavors and allows the dressing to fully coat the ingredients.

Conclusion:

With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can create a delicious and satisfying pasta salad that's perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different ingredients, dressings, and techniques to find your favorite combination. Whether you're hosting a party or packing a lunch, a homemade pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

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