Best 2 Moms Traditional Pasta Salad Recipes

Pasta salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. This collection of recipes features a variety of pasta salads, from classic to unique, so you're sure to find one that you'll love.

From the classic macaroni salad to the more adventurous arugula pasta salad with roasted vegetables, this article has something for everyone. All the recipes are easy to follow and use simple, fresh ingredients. You'll find recipes for both meat-based and vegetarian pasta salads, so everyone can enjoy these delicious dishes.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

MOM'S EASY PASTA SALAD

Mom's Easy Pasta Salad image

I like to cook up a package of chicken tenders and add them to this salad for a light supper. Very easy to adapt to your tastes -- take out the veggies you don't like and add the ones you do like. Cook time is chilling time in the fridge.

Provided by Chapstick

Categories Vegetable

Time 1h15m

Yield 10-15 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (I prefer rotini, but use whatever you like)
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1/2 small red onion, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
1 (4 ounce) can sliced olives, drained
1 (6 ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Italian dressing
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon dill
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

Cook and drain pasta.
Mix with all other ingredients.
Chill and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 227.7, Fat 10.5, SaturatedFat 2.2, Cholesterol 7.5, Sodium 495.1, Carbohydrate 27.7, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 4.1, Protein 6.9

MOM'S TRADITIONAL PASTA SALAD

Mom's Traditional Pasta Salad image

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

12 oz Rotini Tri Colored Pasta
1 chopped red pepper
1 chopped green pepper
1 sliced cucumber
1 can of sliced black olives
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 small can of mushrooms
1 small package pepperoni (cut into quarters, or you can use the new mini pepperoni)
8 oz block of marbled cheddar, cut into cubes (any cheese will work)
1 red onion (diced)
16 ounces Italian Dressing (any brand works great)

Steps:

Cook the pasta as it directs on the package. Pour cooked pasta into a large bowl. Then add red and green peppers, cucumber, sliced olives, tomatoes, mushrooms, pepperoni, cheese cubes, and onion.
Pour Italian dressing on salad (you can use fat-free or low-fat if you want). Mix well. Put salad in fridge for a couple of hours before serving. Stir again before serving. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips:

Use high-quality pasta: Choose a high-quality pasta made from durum wheat semolina flour. This will ensure that the pasta holds its shape and texture when cooked.
Cook the pasta al dente: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but err on the side of undercooking it slightly. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
Use a variety of vegetables: Use a variety of vegetables in your pasta salad, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and olives. This will add color, texture, and flavor to the dish.
Use a flavorful dressing: Use a flavorful dressing to coat the pasta salad. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper is a good option, but you can also use a more complex dressing, such as a pesto or creamy dressing.
Add protein: Add some protein to the pasta salad, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This will make the dish more filling and satisfying.
Serve chilled: Serve the pasta salad chilled. This will help the flavors to meld together and make the dish more refreshing.

Conclusion:

Pasta salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. It's a great option for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. With a little planning and preparation, you can easily make a pasta salad that everyone will enjoy.