Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe

The Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe is colorful, fresh and full of flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for your holiday meal.

This salad has tender pasta, tasty veggies, cheese and a creamy dressing. It goes great with turkey, ham, or any main dish.

The best part is that it’s super easy to make. You don’t need fancy tools or special skills. Just follow a few simple steps, and you’ll have a bowl of delicious pasta salad ready to share.

If you’re wondering how to make Thanksgiving Pasta Salad, this recipe will help you make it perfect every time. Everyone will love it on your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe

You’ll love this Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe because it’s quick, colorful and full of taste. It brings a nice balance to the rich Thanksgiving dishes.

The creamy dressing mixes with pasta and veggies so well. You can even make it a day before and keep it chilled.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone enjoys — from kids to grandparents. Plus, it’s easy to change based on what you like.

You can add more veggies, cheese or even leftover turkey. It’s simple, tasty, and makes your table bright and happy.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Strainer
• Large pot
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Ingredients You’ll Need for Making Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe

• 3 cups pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced turkey or ham (optional)
• 1 cup cucumber, chopped
• ½ cup cheddar cheese cubes
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

These are simple ingredients for Thanksgiving Pasta Salad that you can find in any store.

Instruction To Make Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe

1. Boil the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot with some salt. Add pasta and cook until soft but firm. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking.

2. Prepare the Veggies

While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper. Keep them fresh and colorful for the best look.

3. Make the Dressing

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk well until it becomes smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Everything

Put the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl. Add chopped veggies, cheese cubes, and diced turkey or ham if you’re using it. Pour the dressing over the top.

5. Mix Gently

Stir everything together until the pasta and veggies are coated evenly with the dressing. Be gentle so you don’t crush the pasta.

6. Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl and keep it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together and makes the salad taste even better.

7. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh look. Your tasty Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe is ready to enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Keep it a little firm.
• Use fresh veggies for the best crunch and color.
• Chill the salad before serving for a better taste.
• You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Add leftover turkey or chicken for more protein.

These small tips make your salad even more delicious and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta salad with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or grilled veggies. It’s also great with ham or barbecue dishes.

You can serve it cold or at room temperature. It looks pretty in a glass bowl with all the colorful layers.

This salad also works well for potlucks, parties, or picnics. It’s light, creamy and goes with almost any main dish.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	280 kcal
Carbohydrates	32 g
Protein	10 g
Fat	12 g
Sugar	3 g
Fiber	2 g

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. Stir it before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

If it feels dry, add a spoon of mayonnaise or lemon juice to refresh it. Do not freeze it because the texture of pasta and veggies will change. This salad tastes best when served cold.

FAQs about Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe

1. Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day before. Keep it in the fridge.

2. What kind of pasta is best?
Rotini or penne works great. They hold the dressing well.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, skip the turkey or ham. Add more veggies or beans.

4. How long does it stay fresh?
It stays fresh for up to three days. Keep it chilled.

5. Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, try Italian or ranch dressing for a new taste.

Conclusion!

The Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe is a fresh twist on holiday food. It’s easy, fast, and always tasty.

Now you know how to make Thanksgiving Pasta Salad that everyone will love. With simple ingredients for Thanksgiving Pasta Salad, you can create something colorful and delicious.

It’s perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, parties or even lunch the next day. Try it this year and add some creamy, colorful joy to your festive table. Everyone will come back for seconds!