Best 2 Firecracker Pasta Salad Recipes

**Firecracker Pasta Salad: A Spicy, Savory, and Refreshing Summer Side Dish**

Firecracker pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks. It combines the tangy heat of cherry peppers and pepperoncini with the savory flavors of salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese. The addition of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, celery, and carrots, adds a refreshing crunch and sweetness. This pasta salad is sure to be a hit at your next party or barbecue.

**In this article, you will find two delicious variations of firecracker pasta salad:**

* **Classic Firecracker Pasta Salad:** This version of the dish features a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and sour cream. It is a classic combination that pairs perfectly with the spicy and savory ingredients in the salad.
* **Lightened-Up Firecracker Pasta Salad:** This version of the salad is made with a lighter dressing made with Greek yogurt and olive oil. It is a healthier option that is still full of flavor.

Both versions of the salad are easy to make and can be prepared in advance. They are also a great way to use up leftover cooked pasta. So whether you are looking for a classic side dish or a healthier option, this firecracker pasta salad is sure to please everyone at your table.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

FIRECRACKER PASTA SALAD

Firecracker Pasta Salad image

from Meals.com. I changed the amounts of the olive oil and red wine vinegar; it just seemed a little too dry. It's not spicy or anything, so I'm not sure why it's called "firecracker"

Provided by Kay D.

Categories < 15 Mins

Time 15m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 (9 ounce) packages cheese tortellini, cooked and chilled
1/3 cup olive oil
4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 cups broccoli florets
1 large green bell pepper, chopped (used a red one, for more color contrast)
1/2 cup pitted and halved ripe olives
1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese
1/4 cup freshly shredded romano cheese

Steps:

Heat oil in small saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
Pour into large bowl; cool.
Whisk in vinegar.
Add pasta, tomatoes, broccoli, bell pepper, olives, Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese; toss well to coat.
Refrigerate or serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 341.4, Fat 17.2, SaturatedFat 5.2, Cholesterol 35.1, Sodium 590.4, Carbohydrate 34.6, Fiber 2.2, Sugar 2, Protein 13

GRILLED FIRECRACKER POTATO SALAD

Grilled Firecracker Potato Salad image

I can eat potato salad like crazy. A little spice is nice, so I use cayenne and paprika in this grilled salad that comes with its own fireworks. -Ashley Armstrong, Kingsland, Georgia

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 40m

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

3 pounds small red potatoes (about 30), quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
DRESSING:
1-1/2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
SALAD:
6 hard-boiled large eggs, chopped
2 celery ribs, finely chopped
Minced fresh chives, optional

Steps:

Toss potatoes with oil, salt and pepper; place in a grill wok or basket. Grill, covered, over medium heat 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally. Transfer potatoes to a large bowl; cool slightly., In a small bowl, mix dressing ingredients. Add dressing, eggs and celery to potatoes; toss to combine. Refrigerate, covered, 1-2 hours or until cold. If desired, sprinkle with chives.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 265 calories, Fat 20g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 77mg cholesterol, Sodium 398mg sodium, Carbohydrate 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe vegetables.
Use a variety of colors and textures of vegetables to make the salad more visually appealing.
Don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
Let the pasta cool completely before adding the other ingredients. This will prevent the salad from becoming watery.
For a creamy dressing, use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
For a tangy dressing, use vinegar or lemon juice.
For a spicy dressing, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Season the salad to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve the salad immediately or chill it for later.

Conclusion:

Firecracker pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. It is packed with fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy or tangy dressing. This salad can be customized to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or meats. It is sure to be a hit at your next potluck or barbecue.

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