Description
Cajun Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer gatherings. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks, combining fresh vegetables, zesty seasonings, and a creamy dressing that will wow your guests. Whether served as a side or a light main course, this pasta salad offers versatility and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Just add a splash of water before serving if it thickens in the fridge, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup shallots (finely minced)
- 1 cup red bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 1 cup celery (finely chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp Creole/Cajun mustard
- 2 tbsp good-quality olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tobasco, Crystals)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 9 minutes until tender; drain and cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, mix dressing ingredients including mayonnaise and spices.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before combining with pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg