A pasta house salad is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make. This dish is perfect for an easy dinner, a special occasion, or a light lunch. It is made with fresh ingredients, and is sure to be a hit with everyone. The combination of fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy dressing make this pasta house salad a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
This pasta house salad recipe calls for a few simple ingredients:
- 1 pound of cooked and cooled elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
- 1/2 cup of diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of diced celery
- 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
To make this pasta house salad recipe, follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled elbow macaroni, red onion, green bell pepper, celery, tomatoes, and basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the Parmesan cheese.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta house salad is best served chilled and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light lunch. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. For a heartier meal, add cooked shrimp, diced chicken, and/or cooked bacon for a delicious protein-packed meal.
Tips
- To make this pasta house salad recipe vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise.
- For a creamier dressing, add 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the mayonnaise.
- For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or tarragon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta house salad recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta house salad can be made ahead of time. To do so, prepare the macaroni mixture and the dressing separately, and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, combine the two and serve chilled.
What can I add to this pasta house salad for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or tarragon. You can also add cooked shrimp, diced chicken, and/or cooked bacon for a protein-packed meal.
Can I make this pasta house salad vegan?
Yes, this pasta house salad can be made vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise.
Can I freeze this pasta house salad?
No, this pasta house salad should not be frozen as the mayonnaise will separate when frozen and thawed.
How long will this pasta house salad last in the refrigerator?
This pasta house salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.
