{"id":1963520,"date":"2024-02-24T15:55:26","date_gmt":"2024-03-28T19:55:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/?post_type=recipe&p=1963520"},"modified":"2024-04-17T09:45:50","modified_gmt":"2024-04-17T14:45:50","slug":"pasta-salad","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/pasta-salad\/","title":{"rendered":"Pasta Salad"},"content":{"rendered":"

Pasta salad is a timeless crowd-pleasing dish with endless possibilities. From Italian pasta salad tossed in a zesty vinegar-based dressing to cool, creamy, ranch-style pasta salad topped with a smattering of bacon, there\u2019s a pasta salad recipe<\/a> for every person and every occasion. Vegetarian? Check! Vegan? Check! Meat-lover? Check!<\/p>\n

This recipe is a great foundation for learning how to make pasta salads with an array of ingredient combinations. We’ll walk you through all the basic building blocks for making your very own perfect pasta salad.<\/p>\n

How to Make Pasta Salad<\/h2>\n

Pasta salad is made in four easy steps:<\/p>\n

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  1. Cook the pasta:<\/strong> Each pasta shape cooks differently, so consult the package directions for cook times.<\/li>\n
  2. Prepare the vegetables and mix-ins:<\/strong> Cook any hearty veggies like broccoli, and chop everything into bite-sized pieces.<\/li>\n
  3. Whisk together the dressing: <\/strong>Use a blender, or combine the dressing ingredients in a jar.<\/li>\n
  4. Toss it all together:<\/strong> Once it all comes together, taste the salad, and adjust the dressing and seasonings as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    That final taste test is the best way to know how to customize your <\/em>pasta salad. Take a bite, and ask yourself what the dish needs: salty, spicy, savory or sweet?<\/p>\n

    With just a dash of this or a sprinkle of that, you can elevate, enhance and change the flavor profile of your pasta salad. Add heat with diced chiles or cayenne. For a flourish of color and freshness, add fresh herbs<\/a> like basil, dill or chives. If it needs acidity, try lemon juice or pickled vegetables. If it needs depth, try soy sauce, Worcestershire, grated cheese or even fish sauce!<\/p>\n

    Remember that it’s best to try and keep a balance between salty, sweet, spicy and savory flavors. For example, if you add something salty like olives, consider adding something with natural sweetness, such as tomatoes or roasted bell peppers.<\/p>\n

    Pasta Salad Ingredients<\/h2>\n

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