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Easy Budget Crowd Pasta Salad Recipe for 20 People to Impress

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A simple, affordable, and flavorful pasta salad perfect for feeding a large crowd of 20 people. This recipe features fresh veggies, a tangy homemade dressing, and is quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) rotini pasta (or any short pasta shape)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 fresh clove, minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450g) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  3. While the pasta cooks, chop 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, 1 large diced cucumber, 1 red bell pepper, 1/2 cup black olives (if using), 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion, and shred 1 cup of carrots. Chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley and set aside.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/3 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon sugar or honey, salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing emulsifies.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  6. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld together. Give it a quick toss before serving and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Make the dressing ahead to develop flavors. Toss salad gently to avoid bruising veggies and clumping cheese. Keep dressing separate if not serving immediately for freshness. Can substitute gluten-free pasta and plant-based cheese for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, crowd recipe, budget-friendly, easy pasta salad, potluck recipe, summer salad, rotini pasta salad

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/easy-budget-crowd-pasta-salad-recipe-for-20-people-to-impress/