Category: Pasta
Pasta salad is a dish made with cooked pasta, typically fusilli, penne, or rotini, that is mixed with various ingredients such as vegetables, meats, cheeses, and a dressing. The ingredients can vary widely depending on personal preference, but common additions include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, bell peppers, onions, feta cheese, and Italian dressing. Pasta salad is typically served cold and is a popular dish for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. It is a versatile and customizable dish that can be made in advance and easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory
- Herbal
- Tangy
- Slightly Salty
What goes with Pasta Salad:
- Balsamic Vinaigrette –
- Feta Cheese – Briny, crumbly feta cheese offers a tangy contrast to the pasta and complements the other ingredients well.
- Lemon Vinaigrette –
- Grilled Chicken – Protein-packed chicken adds substance to the pasta salad and balances out the carbs.
- Olives – Salty olives, such as kalamata or black olives, can enhance the flavors in the pasta salad and add a savory element.
- Fried Egg – The creamy yolk of a fried egg creates a rich and decadent sauce when mixed with pasta salad, adding a new layer of flavor and texture.
- Garlic Bread – Garlic bread, or any crusty bread, serves as a delicious vehicle for scooping up the pasta salad and soaking up any dressing.
- Grilled Peaches – The sweetness of the grilled peaches complements the savory pasta salad, while the grilling process adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
- Fresh Vegetables – Crisp vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast in texture and add nutrients.
- Italian Dressing –