Best 20 Salad Pasta Recipes

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Salad pasta is a broad term used to describe a variety of dishes featuring pasta, vegetables, and often some form of dressing. While it's a great way to incorporate more servings of vegetables into your diet, preparing a salad pasta from scratch can be time-consuming. Luckily, there are many flavor-packed, easy-to-follow recipes available to help you whip up a refreshing, delicious salad pasta in no time. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or a meat-lover, our comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.

Let's cook with our recipes!

GREEK PASTA SALAD



Greek Pasta Salad image

Great summer pasta salad.

Provided by Danielle Laroche

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 3h30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 14

2 cups penne pasta
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 teaspoons dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste
⅔ cup extra-virgin olive oil
10 cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
½ cucumber, sliced
½ cup sliced black olives
½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Steps:

  • Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the penne, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Rinse with cold water and drain well in a colander set in the sink.
  • Whisk together the vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Set aside. Combine pasta, tomatoes, onion, green and red peppers, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese in a large bowl. Pour vinaigrette over the pasta and mix together. Cover and chill for 3 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 306.6 calories, Carbohydrate 19.3 g, Cholesterol 14 mg, Fat 23.6 g, Fiber 2.1 g, Protein 5.4 g, SaturatedFat 5.2 g, Sodium 258.1 mg, Sugar 2.8 g

THE BEST CREAMY PASTA SALAD RECIPE



The Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe image

The absolute BEST Creamy Pasta Salad made with broccoli, cucumbers, olives, cheese, red onion, red pepper, and broccoli then tossed in a sweet and tangy dressing. This is the perfect pasta salad for parties and potlucks!

Provided by Elyse

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 (16 ounce) package Ditalini pasta (or whatever pasta you have on hand)
1 cup broccoli florets (chopped)
1/2 red onion (minced)
1 red bell pepper (minced)
1 cucumber (diced)
1 (3.8 ounce) can sliced olives (drained)
1 cup block Colby Jack cheese (cubed)
1 cup Mayonnaise
2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Rinse well with cold water until pasta is cold.
  • Place cooked and cooled pasta in a large mixing or serving bowl.
  • Mix in broccoli florets, red onion, red bell pepper, cucumber, sliced olives and cheese.
  • Whisk together all dressing ingredients and pour over pasta and other ingredients.
  • Gently fold in dressing until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

PASTA CRAB SALAD



Pasta Crab Salad image

"When it comes to cooking, I believe the simpler the better," writes Holland, Michigan's Carol Blauw. "A few years ago, a co-worker told me about this colorful, tasty and, most importantly, easy-to-prepare salad," she says. "It has been a favorite at our house ever since."

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

4-1/2 cups uncooked tricolor spiral pasta
1 package (16 ounces) imitation crabmeat, flaked
1/3 cup chopped celery
1/3 cup chopped green pepper
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup reduced-fat ranch salad dressing
1 teaspoon dill weed

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Toss with crab and vegetables. Combine remaining ingredients. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 242 calories, Fat 7g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 15mg cholesterol, Sodium 579mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

CREAMY CRAB AND PASTA SALAD



Creamy Crab and Pasta Salad image

Crabmeat and pasta are tossed with a creamy seasoned sauce in this great chilled salad.

Provided by dakota kelly

Categories     Salad     Seafood Salad Recipes     Crab Salad Recipes

Time 27m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 (12 ounce) package uncooked pasta shells
½ cup light sour cream
½ cup light mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey mustard
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound cooked crabmeat
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup diced green bell pepper
½ cup chopped green onions

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells 10 to 12 minutes, until al dente, and drain.
  • In a bowl, blend the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey mustard, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
  • In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, sour cream mixture, crabmeat, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and green onions. Cover and chill until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 295 calories, Carbohydrate 35.6 g, Cholesterol 54.3 mg, Fat 8.6 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 19.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 504.1 mg, Sugar 3.5 g

SHRIMP PASTA SALAD



Shrimp Pasta Salad image

I adore shrimp, so discovering it in this pasta salad recipe was a real treat for me. The lemon-dill sauce is light and bright. It's one of our favorite cold pasta salad recipes! -Traci Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

8 ounces uncooked small pasta shells (about 2-2/3 cups)
1 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
4 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons snipped fresh dill
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; rinse with cold water and drain again., In a large bowl, combine pasta, shrimp, peas, green onions and parsley. Mix remaining ingredients; stir into pasta mixture. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 306 calories, Fat 18g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 74mg cholesterol, Sodium 326mg sodium, Carbohydrate 21g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 14g protein.

BACON RANCH PASTA SALAD



Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad image

This is a very flavorful pasta salad. The crisp cooked bacon really adds a nice flavor. I get requests for this pasta salad for every get together and cook out.

Provided by Wilemon

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Rotini Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 1h25m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 (12 ounce) package uncooked tri-color rotini pasta
10 slices bacon
1 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons dry ranch salad dressing mix
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon garlic pepper
½ cup milk, or as needed
1 large tomato, chopped
1 (4.25 ounce) can sliced black olives
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain.
  • Place bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until evenly brown. Drain and chop.
  • In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and garlic pepper. Stir in milk until smooth. Place rotini, bacon, tomato, black olives and cheese in bowl and toss to coat with dressing. Cover and chill at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. Toss with additional milk if the salad seems a little dry.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 335.7 calories, Carbohydrate 14.9 g, Cholesterol 31.3 mg, Fat 26.8 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 9.3 g, SaturatedFat 6.7 g, Sodium 691.1 mg, Sugar 1.6 g

QUICK ITALIAN PASTA SALAD



Quick Italian Pasta Salad image

A quick and flavorful pasta salad with salami and bell peppers.

Provided by Trish

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Rotini Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 25m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 (12 ounce) package tri-color rotini pasta
¾ pound Italian salami, finely diced
½ green bell pepper, sliced
½ red bell pepper, sliced
½ red onion, chopped
1 cup Italian-style salad dressing
1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives
8 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
3 (.7 ounce) packages dry Italian-style salad dressing mix, or to taste
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
  • Combine pasta, salami, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, salad dressing, olives, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Mix dry salad dressing into pasta; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 370.9 calories, Carbohydrate 29.2 g, Cholesterol 46 mg, Fat 21 g, Fiber 1.6 g, Protein 15.2 g, SaturatedFat 7.4 g, Sodium 1893.1 mg, Sugar 5.4 g

BOW-TIE PASTA SALAD



Bow-Tie Pasta Salad image

My aunt and mom created this recipe. It is a family favorite and a great item to bring to picnics and potlucks.

Provided by Alley

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 3h35m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 (16 ounce) package bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
1 (12 ounce) bag broccoli florets
1 (10 ounce) basket cherry or grape tomatoes
1 bunch green onions, sliced
½ cup chopped celery
½ red bell pepper, chopped
½ green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip®)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the bow-tie pasta at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes; drain.
  • Quickly rinse the cooked pasta in cold water to stop it from continuing to cook; drain.
  • Mix the cooled pasta, broccoli, tomatoes, sliced green onions, celery, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper in a large bowl.
  • Gently stir the salad dressing, Parmesan cheese, sugar, basil, and salt in a bowl until evenly mixed.
  • Pour the salad dressing mixture over the pasta mixture; gently toss to coat evenly.
  • Refrigerate 3 hours to overnight before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 317.3 calories, Carbohydrate 43.5 g, Cholesterol 15.3 mg, Fat 12.4 g, Fiber 3.4 g, Protein 7.7 g, SaturatedFat 1.9 g, Sodium 484 mg, Sugar 11.4 g

TUNA PASTA SALAD



Tuna Pasta Salad image

Mustard and dill really add wonderful flair to the flavor of this simple salad. It's really very inexpensive to serve.-Pat Kordas, Nutley, New Jersey

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 package (7 ounces) small pasta shells, cooked and drained
1 can (6 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked
1 large carrot, shredded
1/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup 2% milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons prepared mustard
1 teaspoon dill weed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the pasta, tuna, carrot and onion. Combine remaining ingredients; whisk until smooth. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 551 calories, Fat 35g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 30mg cholesterol, Sodium 709mg sodium, Carbohydrate 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 18g protein.

COLD SHRIMP PASTA SALAD



Cold Shrimp Pasta Salad image

"This salad combines two of my favorite foods: pasta and shrimp. It 's a perfect side for a grilled steak but goes just as well with hamburgers and hot dogs. I've made this many times over the years." -Traci K Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

4 cups uncooked small pasta shells
1 pound cooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined
1-1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1/3 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
1/3 cup reduced-fat plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, peas, green onions and parsley. Stir in the pasta. , In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour over pasta mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 391 calories, Fat 7g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 153mg cholesterol, Sodium 430mg sodium, Carbohydrate 55g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 27g protein.

SALMON PASTA SALAD



Salmon Pasta Salad image

This recipe was one of my husband's favorite ways to enjoy salmon. I've had it so long I don't even remember where it came from originally. This salad is a nice light meal for a hot summer day, and it lets the salmon flavor come through. -Mary Dennis, Bryan, Ohio

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 package (8 ounces) spiral pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups fully cooked salmon chunks or 1 can (14-3/4 ounces) pink salmon, drained, bones and skin removed
1-1/2 cups quartered cherry tomatoes
1 medium cucumber, quartered and sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
1/2 cup canola oil
1/3 cup fresh lemon or lime juice
1-1/2 teaspoons dill weed
1 garlic clove, minced
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 head lettuce, torn

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, toss the pasta, salmon, tomatoes, cucumber and onion. For dressing, combine the oil, lemon or lime juice, dill, garlic, salt and pepper; mix well. Pour over pasta. Cover and chill. Serve over lettuce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 332 calories, Fat 18g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 23mg cholesterol, Sodium 514mg sodium, Carbohydrate 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 16g protein.

CONTEST-WINNING PICNIC PASTA SALAD



Contest-Winning Picnic Pasta Salad image

My family's not big on traditional pasta salads made with mayonnaise, so when I served this colorful version that uses Italian dressing, it was a big hit. This crowd-pleaser is loaded with vegetables, beans and tricolor pasta. It's one of the best picnic salad ideas! -Felicia Fiocchi, Vineland, New Jersey

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch     Side Dishes

Time 25m

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 package (12 ounces) tricolor spiral pasta
1 package (10 ounces) refrigerated tricolor tortellini
1 jar (7-1/2 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts, undrained
1/2 pound fresh broccoli florets (about 1-3/4 cups)
12 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
12 ounces hard salami, cubed
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 cans (2-1/4 ounces each) sliced ripe olives, drained
1 medium red onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 envelopes Italian salad dressing mix

Steps:

  • Cook spiral pasta and tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. Place in a large bowl; add the artichokes, broccoli, provolone cheese, salami, peppers, beans, olives, onion and garlic. , Prepare salad dressing according to package directions; pour over salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 411 calories, Fat 23g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 43mg cholesterol, Sodium 1156mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 18g protein.

PASTA SALAD WITH HOMEMADE DRESSING



Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing image

Pasta salad filled with veggies, cheese, and seasoning. Very tasty and versatile -- is great to make ahead.

Provided by BONNIES

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Rotini Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 8h45m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 18

1 (8 ounce) package uncooked tri-color rotini pasta
6 ounces pepperoni sausage, diced
6 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
¾ cup chopped red bell pepper
1 (6 ounce) can pitted black olives
¼ cup minced fresh parsley
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground mustard seed
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain, and rinse with cold water.
  • In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, pepperoni, provolone cheese, red onion, cucumber, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, olives, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
  • In a jar with a lid, mix the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, basil, oregano, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Seal jar, and shake well.
  • Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta salad, and toss to coat. Cover, and chill 8 hours in the refrigerator

Nutrition Facts : Calories 442.8 calories, Carbohydrate 25.4 g, Cholesterol 38.9 mg, Fat 32 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 15.9 g, SaturatedFat 9.5 g, Sodium 835.7 mg, Sugar 2.6 g

GARDEN PASTA SALAD



Garden Pasta Salad image

A zesty pasta recipe, with lots of crunchy vegetables.

Provided by L. Gale

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 1h30m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked tri-color spiral pasta
½ cup thinly sliced carrots
2 stalks celery, chopped
½ cup chopped green bell pepper
½ cup cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
2 large tomatoes, diced
¼ cup chopped onion
2 (16 ounce) bottles Italian-style salad dressing
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Cook pasta in large pot of boiling water until al dente. Rinse under cold water, and drain.
  • Mix chopped carrots, celery, cucumber, green pepper, tomatoes, and onion together in large bowl.
  • Combine cooled pasta and vegetables together in large bowl. Pour Italian dressing over mixture, add Parmesan cheese and mix well.
  • Chill for one hour before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 449.5 calories, Carbohydrate 45.1 g, Cholesterol 3.5 mg, Fat 27.4 g, Fiber 2.5 g, Protein 8.4 g, SaturatedFat 4.9 g, Sodium 1539.7 mg, Sugar 10.6 g

CHICKEN CLUB PASTA SALAD



Chicken Club Pasta Salad image

Chicken club sandwich-style pasta! Substitute Monterey Jack cheese for the Muenster, if desired.

Provided by Lane J

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 10

8 ounces corkscrew-shaped pasta
¾ cup Italian-style salad dressing
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 cups chopped, cooked rotisserie chicken
12 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup cubed Muenster cheese
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado - peeled, pitted, and chopped

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Whisk Italian-style dressing and mayonnaise together in a large bowl. Stir pasta, chicken, bacon, Muenster cheese, celery, green bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and avocado into dressing until evenly coated.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 485.5 calories, Carbohydrate 37.1 g, Cholesterol 47.9 mg, Fat 30.1 g, Fiber 4.6 g, Protein 19.2 g, SaturatedFat 8.1 g, Sodium 723 mg, Sugar 5.2 g

ITALIAN DRESSING PASTA SALAD



Italian Dressing Pasta Salad image

This colorful salad is hearty enough to be a light meal in itself. It's a great make-ahead dish, since the full flavors of the herbs and veggies need a little time to blend. For more tasty ideas, check out these other cold pasta salad recipes.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 1h

Yield 36 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 17

2 packages (12 ounces each) tricolor spiral pasta
2 packages (16 ounces each) frozen California-blend vegetables, thawed
2 pints grape tomatoes
1 large zucchini, halved and thinly sliced
1 large yellow summer squash, quartered and thinly sliced
1 large red onion, finely chopped
1 block (8 ounces) cheddar cheese, cubed
1 block (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
2 packages (4 ounces each) crumbled tomato and basil feta cheese
1 bottle (16 ounces) Italian salad dressing
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 can (3.8 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
Grated Romano cheese, optional

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain well. In two large bowls, combine the California vegetables, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, onion, cheeses and pasta. , In a small bowl, combine the salad dressing, parsley, basil, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt and pepper. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Stir in olives. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. , Toss before serving. Serve with Romano cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 157 calories, Fat 10g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 15mg cholesterol, Sodium 405mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 5g protein.

AWESOME HAM PASTA SALAD



Awesome Ham Pasta Salad image

I never seem to make enough of this salad. When people see the recipe, they look at me as if I am a little odd...but when they eat it they can't seem to stop! This recipe is great for kids and adults alike. The garlic is optional. Also, to lighten up the salad, substitute light mayonnaise, light sour cream, and turkey ham.

Provided by Karena

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 27m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 14

8 ounces ziti pasta
1 pound cooked ham, cubed
1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 large red onion, coarsely chopped
15 small sweet pickles, chopped, juice reserved
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
2 ½ teaspoons beef bouillon granules
1 tablespoon white vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the drained pasta, ham, peppers, onion, pickles and tomatoes.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, beef bouillon granules, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic and 1/2 cup of reserved pickle juice. Fold into the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Chill overnight to allow the flavors to blend. Serve near room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 696.6 calories, Carbohydrate 44.9 g, Cholesterol 64.8 mg, Fat 48.2 g, Fiber 3.3 g, Protein 21.3 g, SaturatedFat 12.1 g, Sodium 1746.7 mg, Sugar 11.3 g

SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD



Southwestern Pasta Salad image

Really popular at potlucks--make a double batch! Very easy and very delicious. Serve on a bed of lettuce for a nice touch.

Provided by Lisa Provost

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 13

½ (16 ounce) package rotini pasta
⅓ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chili powder, or to taste
2 teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 ½ cups whole kernel corn
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup diced green bell pepper
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 cup chopped roma (plum) tomatoes

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • In a large bowl combine oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt and garlic. Stir in pasta and set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves. Spoon onto a platter and garnish with tomatoes and remaining cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 216.6 calories, Carbohydrate 27.2 g, Fat 10.3 g, Fiber 6.1 g, Protein 6.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.7 g, Sodium 468.3 mg, Sugar 2.4 g

SHRIMP AND PASTA SHELL SALAD



Shrimp and Pasta Shell Salad image

When I want to make a macaroni salad just a little bit extra-special, nothing does the trick like some small, sweet shrimp. This is one of my favorite summer salads, and it's oh-so-easy.

Provided by Chef John

Categories     Salad     Seafood Salad Recipes     Shrimp Salad Recipes

Time 2h35m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 ¼ cups mayonnaise, or more if needed
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons ketchup
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 lemon, juiced
⅓ cup chopped fresh dill
1 (12 ounce) package small pasta shells
1 pound cooked, peeled, and deveined small shrimp - cut in half
½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
¾ cup diced celery
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 pinch paprika, for garnish
3 sprigs fresh dill, or as desired

Steps:

  • Whisk 1 1/4 cup mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl; add lemon juice and 1/3 cup chopped dill. Whisk until thoroughly combined. Refrigerate.
  • Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil and stir in pasta shells; cook until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool pasta slightly; drain again. Transfer to a large bowl.
  • Toss shrimp with pasta; add red bell pepper, celery, and dressing to pasta and shrimp. Mix thoroughly to coat and fill shells with dressing. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, 2 to 3 hours.
  • Stir salad again before serving and season to taste with more salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper if desired. If salad seems a little dry, mix in a little more mayonnaise. Garnish with paprika and sprigs of dill.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 450.9 calories, Carbohydrate 33.8 g, Cholesterol 99.3 mg, Fat 28.8 g, Fiber 1.9 g, Protein 15.4 g, SaturatedFat 4.4 g, Sodium 663.8 mg, Sugar 2.8 g

TRI-COLOR PASTA SALAD



Tri-Color Pasta Salad image

This is a quick and tasty pasta salad that all of my friends beg me to make whenever there is a party! It is always a crowd pleaser!

Provided by MEEHSKABOB

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 20m

Yield 15

Number Of Ingredients 4

2 pounds uncooked tri-color spiral pasta
10 ounces diced processed American cheese
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
1 (16 ounce) bottle Italian-style salad dressing

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • Toss cooled pasta with cheese, broccoli and Italian-style dressing to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 381.2 calories, Carbohydrate 48.9 g, Cholesterol 17.8 mg, Fat 15.7 g, Fiber 2.6 g, Protein 13 g, SaturatedFat 5.3 g, Sodium 779.7 mg, Sugar 5 g

Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your pasta salad.
  • Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta is the best choice for pasta salad, as it will hold its shape and texture better.
  • Cool the pasta completely before adding the other ingredients. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
  • Use a variety of vegetables in your pasta salad. This will add color, flavor, and texture.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment with different dressings. There are many different types of dressings that can be used on pasta salad, so find one that you like and go with it.
  • Make sure to season your pasta salad well. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add other spices and herbs to taste.
  • Serve pasta salad chilled. This is the best way to enjoy its refreshing flavor.

Conclusion:

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It's a great option for lunch, dinner, or a side dish. With so many different recipes to choose from, you're sure to find one that you love. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give pasta salad a try. You won't be disappointed.

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