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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That’s Perfect for Summer Gatherings

A refreshing Creamy Pasta Salad, vibrant with vegetables and savory sausage, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Any pasta shape works well too.
  • 8 oz Summer Sausage Can be swapped with smoked sausage or crispy bacon.
  • 1 cup Broccoli Fresh or blanched both work nicely.
  • 1 small Red Onion Green onions can be a milder alternative.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Olives Any type of olives based on preference.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Can be substituted with your favorite cheese.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it.
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Homemade vinaigrette can be an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Adjust according to taste or omit.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Enhances overall flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine summer sausage, broccoli, red onion, grape tomatoes, olives, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Italian dressing, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with sausage and veggies, and gently fold to combine.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and fold to coat everything evenly.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Letting the salad chill improves flavor. You can customize with different proteins such as chicken or tofu.

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