pasta salad Archives - EverybodyCraves

Crave-Worthy Recipes August 2, 2019

Best bruschetta pasta salad

If you had to describe summer in one bite, it would probably be something cool and refreshing. It would definitely be loaded with the flavors of juicy, local tomatoes and fresh, fragrant basil. It would be easy to make and light to eat. It would be this bruschetta pasta salad. You can choose any pasta you have in your pantry, but I if you’re going shopping, pick up some orecchiette. The shape is perfect for cradling small cherry tomatoes. If you use a pasta with more nooks and crannies, you may have to add more dressing to coat. If you’re a backyard gardener, or if you’ve inherited a crop of heirlooms or other full-sized tomatoes, use those! Yum! Don’t buy special cherry tomatoes just for this. Just chop up whatever you have — maybe even a mix! — and toss with the pasta and other ingredients. It’s a great way…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes June 21, 2019

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

To say buffalo chicken dip is addicting is an understatement. I’m not sure I’ve ever been to a potluck where the buff-chick dip didn’t all go — and go fast! I feel confident saying that any one of us well-meaning health conscious adults, would sit down and eat an entire tray of buffalo chicken dip if it weren’t for judgement. That same love extends to this delicious buffalo chicken pasta salad. In fact, it’s even better as a summer barbecue side dish than the real deal dip because it’s cold and refreshing. The contrast between this dish and the foods hot off the grill create a perfect balance. Add a big scoop to your plate along with baked beans, coleslaw, watermelon, and potato salad — drooling yet? This buffalo chicken pasta salad is creamy yet, has a kick of heat, and juicy, crunchy veggies. It’s so good, you’ll get asked…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes August 5, 2018

Avocado Whole Wheat Pasta Salad Recipe

When your avocados are ready, they’re ready. There is no waiting until tomorrow because they can seemingly go from perfect to spoiled overnight. This avocado whole wheat pasta salad recipe is great since you can use up two or three ripe avocados at once, and most importantly, do it in the most delicious way. This recipe can be a weeknight time-saver, too. Prep the veggies ahead of time and set aside in a covered bowl. Ripe, summer tomatoes, fresh cilantro, crunchy green onions, crisp bacon and creamy avocados are a team made in heaven to tempt you tastebuds. Add the smooth, silky dressing to healthy whole wheat pasta, and you have one incredible meal — trust me, this pasta salad is something special. I’ve added some flaky tuna in the past for some extra protein, and it tasted great. I’d imagine you can easily add chicken or shrimp to this…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes June 30, 2018

Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad

It’s finally that time of the year when you can introduce some lighter fare to your home cooked menu. Whether it’s lunch or dinner (or leftovers!), this Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad has all of the elements of a perfect summer meal. Just toss some bite-sized pasta and mini mozzarella, with fresh basil and tomatoes from the garden and add some chicken for some protein. Then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s all the summer flavors you love, reconfigured as a quick and easy pasta salad. When you combine pasta and Caprese, could you ever go wrong? Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad Ingredients 2 cups pasta (any shape) 2 cups chicken, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces 2 cups mini mozzarella pearls 1 cup cherry tomatos, halved handful of fresh basil, chopped + extra for garnish 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar, or balsamic glaze salt pepper Directions Cook pasta until…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes April 25, 2018

Mediterranean tricolored rotini crab pasta salad

I make this recipe no less than 10 times a year. It’s always a hit at friend gatherings. It’s a must at Memorial Day. I never have leftovers when I bring it to work potlucks, and it’s perfect to have ready in the fridge anytime you think people might stop by. Plus, you can prepare it the night before, never worry about keeping it hot, and you can adapt the recipe to make as much as you like. When you have to feed a large number of people, try this pasta salad instead of your go-to lasagne. I made a huge bowl of this for my friends after they had their baby and they appreciated someone finally brought them something lighter and healthier! You can add anything to the mix from shredded mozzarella to sunflower seeds or blueberries. I like tossing in mandarin orange slices for a touch of sweetness and crushed croutons for some…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes June 28, 2017

Citrusy, cilantro pasta salad with peas, green beans and almonds

Pasta salads are one of the most simple and versatile dishes around. There’s a seemingly endless combination of delicious pastas, veggies, herbs and spices out there. With fresh ingredients, they rarely fail. This pasta salad uses whole wheat penne for a hearty base and matches it with the snap of green beans, the pop of peas, and the crunch of almonds. Yet, it’s the citrus and cilantro that take it to the next level. Enjoy this light and summery pasta salad with chicken, fish or even on its own. (Use fresh green beans for best flavor. You may substitute Royal Burgundy (Phaseolus vulgarism) for a purple pop along side the green peas and oatmeal colored pasta. The color combo is a real show stopper!) Citrusy Pasta Salad with Peas, Green Beans Prep time: 30 minutes, Serves 3-4 Ingredients 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (I like the shape of penne to match the beans) 4 cups…

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