Are you tired of the same old salad recipes? Looking for something new to bring to your next potluck or barbecue? Look no further than our delicious Coleslaw Pasta Salad! This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the classic flavors of coleslaw with the heartiness of pasta, creating a crowd-pleasing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So let’s dive in and learn how to make this tasty Coleslaw Pasta Salad!
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 1 16oz. box ditalini pasta, cooked and rinsed
- 1 16oz. bag coleslaw mix
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery ribs, thinly chopped
- 2 medium cucumbers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped small
Dressing:
- 1 1/2 cups real mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In the same bowl with the pasta, add the coleslaw mix, finely chopped white onion, thinly chopped celery ribs, seeded and finely chopped cucumbers, and chopped green bell pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Coleslaw Pasta Salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve it chilled as a side dish or a light meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or cooked bacon to the salad for added protein and flavor.
- Swap Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on your preferences. You can add shredded carrots, sliced radishes, or diced tomatoes for extra color and crunch.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of the dressing, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the Coleslaw Pasta Salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free? A: To make this salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the ditalini pasta.
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing? A: Yes, you can substitute white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for the apple cider vinegar if desired.
Q: How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator? A: Stored in an airtight container, this Coleslaw Pasta Salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I add fresh herbs to the salad? A: Absolutely! Chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill would make a delicious addition to this salad.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: For a keto-friendly version of this salad, omit the pasta altogether and double up on the coleslaw mix and vegetables. Use a sugar-free mayonnaise or a keto-friendly dressing alternative.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or stevia to lower the carb content. You can also use spiralized zucchini or shredded cabbage as a low-carb alternative to the pasta.
In conclusion, Coleslaw Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of crunchy vegetables, tender pasta, and tangy dressing that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, potluck dinner, or weeknight meal, this refreshing salad is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s easy to see why this Coleslaw Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and add a burst of flavor to your next gathering?
Elevate your salad game with our delicious Coleslaw Pasta Salad recipe—it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of summertime goodness!
With detailed instructions, FAQs, and variations, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering Coleslaw Pasta Salad! Let me know if you need further assistance or if there’s anything else I can assist you with!
