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Favorite Family Reunion Pasta Salad Recipe Easy for Big Gatherings

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A quick and easy pasta salad perfect for big gatherings, combining fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and tender pasta for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 g) rotini pasta (or your favorite shape)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts / 3.8 L). Add the 12 ounces (340 g) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Shake off excess water well.
  3. While pasta cooks, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried dill in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice black olives (if using).
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, shredded cheddar cheese, and olives.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold using a spatula or large spoon until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and pasta soak up the dressing.
  8. Give it a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, toss pasta with a bit of dressing while still warm. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. If salad thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a splash of milk or vinegar to loosen. Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version. Vegan mayo and dairy-free sour cream can be used for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, family reunion, potluck, easy pasta salad, crowd-pleaser, creamy dressing, rotini pasta, picnic salad

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/favorite-family-reunion-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-for-big-gatherings/