Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad (Print version)

Vibrant creamy pasta with cherry tomatoes, peppers, and tangy pink dressing

# What goes in:

→ Pasta & Vegetables

01 - 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 cup diced red bell pepper
04 - 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
05 - 1 cup diced cucumber
06 - 1/2 cup chopped celery

→ Pink Cadillac Dressing

07 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1/4 cup sour cream
09 - 2 tbsp ketchup
10 - 2 tbsp pickle juice or red wine vinegar
11 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
12 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnishes

15 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
16 - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

# Cooking steps:

01 - Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool; set aside.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and celery.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, pickle juice (or vinegar), Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and pink in color.
04 - Add the cooled pasta to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over and toss until everything is evenly coated.
05 - Gently stir in chopped parsley and cheddar cheese if using.
06 - Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor. Serve cold, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

# Tips from flavorandfeast:

01 -
  • The dressing is a total conversation starter with its gorgeous color and irresistible flavor
  • It actually gets better as it sits, making it perfect for make-ahead gatherings
  • Everything comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you fussed over it
02 -
  • The dressing will seem thick initially but thins out beautifully as it melds with the vegetables and pasta
  • This salad tastes significantly better after chilling, so never skip the refrigerator step
  • Red onion can overpower delicate palates, so do not be afraid to reduce the amount if your family prefers a milder flavor
03 -
  • Cut all your vegetables slightly larger than you think necessary since they will shrink in the refrigerator
  • Use the pickle juice from your refrigerator jar for the most authentic flavor profile

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