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Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

Easy Pasta Salad Recipe


  • Author: Adeline
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

This Easy Pasta Salad Recipe is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing for a picnic, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this pasta salad is sure to impress. With its colorful ingredients and delightful flavors, it’s not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutritional goodness. Plus, it’s quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch. Enjoy the refreshing taste of this salad chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz uncooked mini pasta shells
  • 2 mini cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 oz colby jack cheese, cubed
  • 3 Tbsp red onion, finely chopped
  • 8 oz turkey bacon, cooked
  • 2/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp sour cream
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
  2. In a jar or bowl, combine mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, sour cream, milk, minced garlic, lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Air fry turkey bacon until crispy; cut into small pieces.
  4. Chop cucumbers and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces; finely chop red onion.
  5. Cube colby jack cheese.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with chopped vegetables, turkey bacon pieces and cubed cheese.
  7. Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  8. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or olives based on your preference. Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavor profile; consider making it a day ahead for even better results.