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Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Creamy Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad: A Colorful Picnic Star

Experience the vibrant and creamy Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for summer picnics and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Cavatappi Pasta A fun shape that holds the creamy dressing.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Adds richness; lighter version optional.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Offers a tangy contrast.
  • 2 tablespoons White Vinegar Brightens the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Introduces subtle heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Delivers warmth.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness; can substitute.
  • 1 cup Celery Provides essential crunch.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Provides sharpness; green onions can substitute.
  • 1 cup Carrots Can use grated for subtle twist.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Transfer cooled pasta to a large bowl and drizzle with vinegar or lemon juice, tossing gently.
  4. Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the pasta and mix until evenly coated. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Add red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and carrots to the pasta. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad and toss gently to adjust creaminess. Season to taste.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight to enhance flavor.
  8. Stir before serving and garnish with paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Make ahead for better flavor, and reserve some dressing to refresh the salad before serving.

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