Trying to find the perfect side dish for your summer barbecue? Look no further than this Southern Living pasta salad. With its classic combination of flavors and textures, this classic dish is sure to be a hit. The combination of sweet, crunchy vegetables, al dente pasta and tangy dressing will have everyone coming back for more.
This delicious pasta salad can be made with a variety of different ingredients. Start with a basic pasta, such as penne or rotini. Then, choose a variety of vegetables to add crunch, color and flavor. Some great options include bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, and celery. If you want to add a bit of protein, you can also add in cooked chicken, turkey, or tuna. Finally, top the salad off with a delicious homemade dressing.
When it comes to the dressing, you have a few options. A classic Italian dressing is always a good choice, but you can also make your own homemade dressing. For a light, tangy dressing, try combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Or, for a creamier dressing, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and your favorite spices and herbs.
Once all of the ingredients are combined, it’s time to assemble the salad. Begin by adding the cooked pasta to a large bowl. Then, add in the vegetables and protein, if using. Next, pour in the dressing and mix everything together. Finally, season the salad with salt and pepper and chill for at least an hour before serving.
This Southern Living pasta salad is a great dish for summer potlucks and barbecues. It’s simple to prepare and can easily be adapted to suit any taste. Plus, this salad stores well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for several days.
How to Make Southern Living Pasta Salad
Making Southern Living pasta salad is easy and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. Here’s how to make it:
- Gather the ingredients:penne pasta, bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, celery, Italian dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs (optional).
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain and let cool.
- Chop the vegetables and combine them in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and mix everything together.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing. Combine the ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Tips for Making Southern Living Pasta Salad
Here are some tips for making the perfect Southern Living pasta salad:
- If you want to add a bit of protein to the salad, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or tuna.
- If you’re in a rush, you can use store-bought Italian dressing instead of making your own.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a bit of mayonnaise to the dressing.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley.
- This salad can be served immediately, but it tastes best when chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Living pasta salad?
Southern Living pasta salad is a classic side dish made with al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s a great dish for potlucks and barbecues and can easily be adapted to suit any taste.
How do you make Southern Living pasta salad?
Making Southern Living pasta salad is easy and doesn’t take a lot of time or effort. To make it, start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Then, chop the vegetables and combine them with the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Next, prepare the dressing and pour it over the salad. Finally, chill the salad for at least an hour before serving.
What vegetables can I use in Southern Living pasta salad?
When making Southern Living pasta salad, you can use a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, and celery. You can also add cooked chicken, turkey, or tuna for a bit of protein.
What type of dressing should I use?
When making Southern Living pasta salad, you can use a classic Italian dressing or make your own. To make your own dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. For a creamier dressing, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and your favorite spices and herbs.
Can I make Southern Living pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Southern Living pasta salad ahead of time. The salad stores well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for several days.
