Busy moms know the importance of quick, delicious meals that everyone in the family will enjoy. Mardi Gras Pasta Salad fits that bill perfectly. This vibrant dish offers a celebration of flavors in every bite. Toss it together in just a few minutes and it becomes an easy go-to for lunch or dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Mardi Gras Pasta Salad stands out for its simplicity and fun flavors. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It’s comforting yet light enough that everyone can enjoy a generous serving. Best of all, kids love it! The colorful ingredients grab their attention, while the taste keeps them coming back for more.
How to Make Mardi Gras Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked and diced chicken
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup Italian salad dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, chicken, bell peppers, black olives, and green onions.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving.
Mardi Gras Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad that’s quick to make and perfect for the whole family.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked and diced chicken
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup Italian salad dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, chicken, bell peppers, black olives, and green onions.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Customize the salad by adding feta cheese or fresh herbs, and try different pasta shapes for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
How to Serve
Mardi Gras Pasta Salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or fish. You can also serve it as a main dish by adding additional protein or serving it alongside crusty bread. For lunch, pack it in individual containers. Pair it with fruit or a light dessert for a well-balanced meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
How to Store
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a good stir. If it feels a bit dry, drizzle a little more dressing on top to revive it.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. You can easily substitute the chicken with turkey or even keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether. Add some feta cheese for a creamy texture or toss in some fresh herbs for extra flavor. This recipe is adaptable, so make it your own!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta works well in this recipe. Try bowtie, shells, or penne for a fun twist.
Is this pasta salad good for meal prep?
Yes, it is! Make it a day in advance for an easy grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
Can I serve it warm?
While this salad is best chilled, you can serve it warm right after making it. It’s delicious either way!
Conclusion
Mardi Gras Pasta Salad is a fun and easy recipe that busy moms will love. It combines flavor, simplicity, and plenty of options for customization. Give it a try, and your family will thank you. Save this recipe for your next meal planning session, and delight in the smiles it brings to the table!
