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Blushing Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

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This vibrant pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any gathering. With creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, it’s a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of summer picnics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta down, preventing it from becoming mushy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
  4. Carefully dice 1/2 red onion, 2 celery stalks, and 1 green bell pepper. Add these to the bowl with the dressing, along with 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Mix gently to incorporate the vegetables without bruising them.
  5. Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing and veggies. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy mixture. Make sure to do this gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
  6. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of bacon bits. These add a delightful salty crunch that enhances the flavors of the salad.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious.
  8. Before serving, give it a good stir. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash more mayonnaise or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition

Keywords: One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Always set a timer and taste-test it a minute before the package's suggested time to ensure it stays al dente.

Find it online: https://crumella.com/blushing-pink-cadillac-pasta-delight/