My Most Requested Memorial Day Pasta Salad
(Crowd-pleasing, creamy, and loaded with fresh veggies—perfect for BBQs & potlucks!)
🥗 Ingredients (Serves 10-12)
For the Salad:
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1 lb (450g) rotini or bowtie pasta, cooked al dente
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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½ red onion, thinly sliced
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1 bell pepper (any color), diced
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1 cup black olives, sliced
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8 oz (225g) mozzarella pearls or cubed cheddar
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½ cup pepperoni slices (optional, for meat lovers)
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¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
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1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
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½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for tang)
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions (10 mins prep + chilling)
1️⃣ Cook & Cool Pasta
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Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Chop & Combine
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In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, olives, cheese, and pepperoni (if using).
3️⃣ Make the Dressing
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Whisk together Italian dressing, mayo, Dijon, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Toss & Chill
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Pour dressing over salad and gently toss. Refrigerate at least 1 hour (overnight = BEST flavor!).
5️⃣ Serve!
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Garnish with fresh herbs and extra cheese before serving.
🌟 Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
✅ Make-ahead friendly—tastes better the next day!
✅ Creamy + zesty dressing clings to every bite.
✅ Endlessly customizable—add grilled chicken, avocado, or artichokes.
💡 Pro Tips:
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Gluten-free? Use chickpea or gluten-free pasta.
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Vegetarian? Skip pepperoni and add chickpeas for protein.
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Extra crunch? Toss in sunflower seeds right before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with burgers, hot dogs, or grilled corn! 🌭🌽
Fun Fact: Pasta salad is a Memorial Day classic because it’s portable, feeds a crowd, and won’t wilt in the sun! ☀️
Need a lighter version? Swap mayo for plain Greek yogurt! 😊