Tri-color pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. It is made with a combination of cooked pasta, vegetables, and a light dressing. The three colors of pasta (typically red, white, and green) add a festive touch to the salad, while the vegetables provide a variety of textures and flavors. This versatile dish can be customized to suit your own taste preferences, making it a favorite among both adults and children. Aside from the basic recipe, the article also includes variations such as a Greek-inspired pasta salad with feta cheese and olives, a hearty chicken and bacon pasta salad, and a vegan pasta salad with roasted vegetables. With its ease of preparation and endless variations, tri-color pasta salad is a delightful dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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TRI-COLOR PASTA SALAD
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
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
EASY TRI-COLOR PASTA SALAD
Simple recipe for tri-color pasta salad. This recipe uses fresh mushrooms, onions, green peppers, etc. You can alter this recipe to suit your taste. Sometimes I throw in a chopped cucumber or broccoli florets. You can add diced pepperoni or baby shrimp. Great for summer picnics & BBQ's! Note: I use 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the prepared Good Seasons Italian dressing made in the cruet - depends on how many vegetables I add in on how much dressing I use.
Provided by BlondieItaliana
Categories Summer
Time 13m
Yield 18 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Prepare pasta al dente as directed on package.
- Meanwhile, prepare above ingredients. Drain pasta & cool. Combine all ingredients by stirring gently.
- Chill & serve.
LITE TRI-COLOR PASTA SALAD
Using tasty bottled dressing makes this pasta salad come together in a cinch. Diced red pepper and corn are slightly sweet and add a crunchy texture. It's a simple and colorful pasta salad. Enjoy alongside a sandwich, a burger or add your favorite protein for a light meal.
Provided by Sue Adame
Categories Pasta Sides
Time 45m
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- 1. Cook pasta according to package direction until aldente. (8 - 9 minutes)
- 2. Add the frozen corn to the cooking pasta during the last 3 minutes.
- 3. Drain and rinse pasta/corn with cold water. Transfer to bowl. Add diced red peppers, red pepper flakes and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- 4. Add Ken's Steak House Lite Italian dressing and mix well. Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until chilled.
- 5. Stir before serving. Adding a little more dressing if desired.
Tips:
- Prep Ahead: Boil the pasta and cook the chicken in advance to save time during assembly. You can also chop the vegetables and marinate them in the dressing.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Tri-color rotini or penne pasta works well for this salad, but you can use any short pasta shape you like.
- Cook the Pasta Perfectly: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but drain it slightly before it's fully tender. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when you toss it with the dressing.
- Use a Flavorful Dressing: The dressing is what brings all the flavors of the salad together. Use a combination of olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, herbs, and seasonings to create a tangy and flavorful dressing.
- Don't Overdress the Salad: Toss the pasta with just enough dressing to coat it lightly. Overdressing will make the salad soggy and bland.
- Chill Before Serving: After assembling the salad, chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to firm up.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the salad with fresh chopped herbs such as basil, parsley, or cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion:
Tri-color pasta salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer potlucks and picnics. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables. The combination of sweet tomatoes, crispy cucumber, salty feta cheese, and tangy dressing makes this salad irresistible. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy side dish, give this tri-color pasta salad a try.
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