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5 from 4 votes

Classic Pasta Salad

Not only is this salad colorful but it's also healthy and flavorful! This is a classic recipe you'll be pleased to serve at your next party!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Passive Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 28 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Francine Lizotte
Course: Salads & Dressings, Vegetables & Sides
Cuisine: International
Keyword Backyard Party, Easy Recipe, Healthy, Kids Recipes, Low Sodium/No Sodium, Pasta, Picnic, Summer Food, Tailgating

Ingredients

SALAD

  • 1 lb. (16 oz.) tri-color rotini pasta, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup ham, cubed *optional
  • 1/2 cup green peppers, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup orange peppers, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red peppers, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped tips & tricks
  • 2 cups cucumber, quartered
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered tips & tricks
  • 1/4 cup red onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 can (1.12 oz./32 g) sliced black olives, drained
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/2 tbsp. Italian seasoning see Recipe
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped tips & tricks

DRESSING

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise see Recipe
  • 1/2 cup Miracle Whip®
  • 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tbsp. hot sauce, such as Cholula®
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

Directions

SALAD

  • In a large bowl, combine all the salad ingredients. Stir until well blended, cover and transfer to the refrigerator to chill for 1 hour.

DRESSING

  • In a medium bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients; whisk well.
  • Pour over the pasta salad and gently stir until all the ingredients are coated. Cover and chill for 2 hours.