Big-Batch Pasta Salad: 10-Minute Family Feast Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Imagine a colorful medley of pasta, bursting with fresh vegetables, and drenched in a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast is not just a side dish; it’s an unforgettable experience that transforms any gathering into a delightful culinary adventure. As you open the fridge and pull out bowls of vibrant ingredients, the anticipation fills the air—this is the taste of summer gatherings and family reunions. For more inspiration, check out this great side dishes recipe.

Growing up, my family didn’t just eat; we feasted! When we gathered around the table, laughter bubbled up like boiling pasta. This Big-Batch Pasta Salad became our go-to for potlucks and picnics. The best part? It’s versatile enough to please everyone, from picky toddlers to adventurous grandpas who think adding jalapeños to everything is a food group. Get ready to dive into a bowl of joy that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

Ingredients for Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose rotini or penne for their ability to hold onto dressing and mix well with other ingredients.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, these add sweetness and color; opt for vibrant red or yellow varieties.

• Cucumber: Crunchy and refreshing, they lend a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with softer ingredients.

• Bell Peppers: Use an array of colors—red, yellow, orange—to brighten your salad while adding sweetness.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for that sharp bite; soak in water first if you want to tone down the intensity.

For the Dressing:

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while adding richness to the salad.

• Balsamic Vinegar: This brings acidity and depth; feel free to use red wine vinegar if you’re looking for something sharper.

• Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon adds a subtle kick that elevates this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until chilled.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While the pasta cools, chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity so every scoop is filled with color.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary—this is where you can really shine!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped veggies. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently until evenly coated—trust me; this step will make everyone swoon.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour (or longer if possible) so flavors can meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve with Style

When ready to serve, give your salad one last gentle toss before transferring it into serving bowls or platters. Enjoy it alongside crusty bread or grilled meats—the choice is yours!

Now you’re armed with laughter-inducing family memories wrapped up in every forkful of this Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast! Enjoy creating new memories while savoring each bite of this delightful dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear your protein first, then boil your pasta while preparing the dressing. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is ready to toss together when you’re done. Timing is key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies depending on the season or your preference. Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some olives for an extra punch. Experiment with dressings like balsamic or ranch to elevate your big-batch pasta salad.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy later, simply toss it in a bowl and add a splash of olive oil before serving to refresh those flavors.

There was this one summer barbecue where I brought my big-batch pasta salad. Everyone asked for seconds, and I felt like a culinary rock star! My aunt even said she might consider adopting me just for my cooking skills!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Big-Batch Pasta Salad?

To make a delicious Big-Batch Pasta Salad, you will need pasta, such as rotini or penne, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers, protein sources like grilled chicken or chickpeas, and a zesty dressing. You can also include olives, cheese, and herbs to enhance the flavor. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your family’s preferences.

How long does Big-Batch Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

Big-Batch Pasta Salad can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, make sure to add any delicate ingredients, like greens or certain cheeses, just before serving. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers.

Can I make Big-Batch Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Making Big-Batch Pasta Salad ahead of time is a great idea for family gatherings or meal prep. Prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate if you prefer a crunchier texture.

What variations can I try with Big-Batch Pasta Salad?

There are countless variations for Big-Batch Pasta Salad! You can experiment with different types of pasta, dressings, and add-ins like roasted vegetables or nuts. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate feta cheese and olives; for a southwestern flair, use black beans and corn with a lime vinaigrette. Customize it according to your family’s tastes!

Conclusion for Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast:

In summary, Big-Batch Pasta Salad is the ideal dish for feeding a crowd while offering endless customization options. By selecting fresh ingredients and preparing it ahead of time, you create a flavorful meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy this vibrant salad at your next family gathering or picnic; it’s sure to be a hit!

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Big-Batch Pasta Salad – Perfect for a Family Feast

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Big-Batch Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual picnics. Bursting with colorful vegetables and coated in a zesty dressing, this easy-to-make salad is not only visually appealing but also customizable to suit everyone’s taste. With its delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next potluck or barbecue.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (varied colors), diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Customize your salad by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. - Use seasonal vegetables for optimal freshness. - For a creamier dressing variation, consider adding Greek yogurt or sour cream.