For a more vibrant salad, consider using tri-color pasta. Blanching the cauliflower briefly in boiling water then shocking it in ice water will help retain its bright color and crisp texture. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice. This salad is best when made ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Patriotic Pasta
-
PREP TIME30 mins
-
COOK TIME20 mins
-
TOTAL TIME1 hrs 50 mins
-
SERVING12 People
-
VIEWS33
Celebrate the spirit of freedom with this vibrant pasta salad! Bursting with fresh flavors and a creamy blue cheese dressing, it's the perfect dish to showcase your patriotic pride at any summer gathering.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
-
Carbohydrate38 g
-
Cholesterol13 mg
-
Fiber3 g
-
Protein11 g
-
Saturated Fat3 g
-
Sodium250 mg
-
Sugar3 g
-
Fat11 g
-
Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, blue cheese, milk, honey mustard, vinegar, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth and well combined. Set aside. (5 minutes)
02
StepCook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain well and transfer to a large bowl. (15 minutes)
03
StepInfuse with Garlic & Basil: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh basil. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic (about 1-2 minutes). Pour the garlic-basil infused oil over the cooked penne and toss to coat evenly. (5 minutes)
04
StepAssemble the Salad: Add the blanched cauliflower florets, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red bell pepper, mozzarella cheese strips, sliced green onions, and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl with the pasta. Gently toss to combine all ingredients. (5 minutes)
05
StepDress and Chill: Pour the prepared blue cheese dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. (1 hour +)
06
StepServe: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Garnish with extra crumbled blue cheese, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
RECIPE REVIEWS
LEAVE A REVIEW
Please Rate
Anna Steuber
Apr 15, 2025I didn't have any blue cheese on hand, so I substituted feta cheese and it was still amazing.
Jeremie Gorczany
Mar 31, 2025I made it but added artichoke hearts! It was amazing!
Martin Heathcote
Mar 30, 2025The family loves this salad. We have it at least once every two weeks.
Amiya Oberbrunner
Mar 7, 2025I added some grilled chicken to the salad and it was a delicious and filling meal.
Fleta Roberts
Jan 25, 2025The dressing is so flavorful! I will definitely be making this again.
Efren Schneider
Jan 9, 2025This recipe was a hit at my 4th of July party! Everyone loved the combination of flavors.
Easton Orn
Dec 29, 2024A great recipe that is easy to follow and can be adjusted to suit personal tastes. Thank you!