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.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
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.
Prepare the Veggies
- While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper. Keep them fresh and colorful for the best look.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh look. Your tasty Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe is ready to enjoy.
Notes
- 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.