Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad

Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy cabbage, and tender pasta creates a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional pasta salad, incorporating cabbage for added crunch and nutrition. Pasta salads have been a popular dish for picnics and potlucks for many years, and this creamy version adds a new level of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

1.5 cups uncooked corkscrew macaroni
0.5 cup plain low fat yogurt
0.33 cup reduced calorie creamy italian salad dressing
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
2 cups mixed shredded cabbage and carrots
1 medium cucumber, chopped
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
lettuce leaves (optional)

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni according to the package directions.
Drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold running water.
Make sure to drain the macaroni well.
In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, salad dressing, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
In a large bowl, toss together the macaroni, salad dressing mixture, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and tomato.
Cover the bowl and quick chill the mixture in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Serve the mixture atop lettuce if desired.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Use a different type of pasta, such as bowtie or penne, for a different texture.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, for added color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Quick chilling the salad in the freezer helps to meld the flavors and create a refreshing dish.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or protein sources for added variety.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It is also a great option for a picnic or potluck.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the salad.

- Quick chilling the salad in the freezer helps to meld the flavors and create a refreshing dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt in place of plain yogurt for added protein.

- Feel free to use your favorite creamy salad dressing in place of the reduced-calorie Italian dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad in a large bowl or on individual plates garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also serve it on a bed of lettuce for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a light beer or sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this salad contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal option that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

This salad is relatively low in fat, with only about 5 grams per serving. The creamy dressing adds a touch of richness without being overly heavy.

Proteins

With the addition of yogurt and Parmesan cheese, this salad provides about 8 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad is a good source of vitamins A and C from the cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. These vitamins are important for immune function and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of yogurt and Parmesan cheese. If you have a dairy allergy or intolerance, you can easily substitute dairy-free alternatives.

Summary

Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad is a balanced and nutritious meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Summary

Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a creamy dressing, crunchy cabbage, and tender pasta, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck dinner at my friend Martha's house. As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Martha was bustling around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and boiling pasta for the salad. I watched in awe as she effortlessly combined the ingredients, creating a dish that looked both beautiful and delicious. I asked her where she had learned to make such a unique salad, and she smiled and said it was a recipe passed down to her from her grandmother.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad. The flavors exploded in my mouth, the creamy dressing complementing the crunchy cabbage and tender pasta perfectly. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After the dinner, I asked Martha if she would be willing to share her grandmother's recipe with me. She agreed, and we spent the next few hours in the kitchen, as she guided me through the steps of making the salad. I took notes, asked questions, and soaked up every bit of knowledge she shared with me.

Over the years, I have made this Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad countless times. It has become a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time I make it, I am reminded of Martha and her grandmother, and the bond that food can create between friends.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have shared their culinary knowledge with me. From my own grandmother, who taught me how to make the perfect pie crust, to Martha, who introduced me to this delicious salad, I am constantly inspired by the power of food to bring people together.

I have always believed that cooking is more than just following a recipe – it is a way to connect with others, to share stories and traditions, and to create lasting memories. And so, as I continue to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way, and for the delicious dishes that have brought joy and nourishment to myself and those I love.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for your family or friends, remember the stories and traditions behind the recipes you are using. Let the flavors and aromas transport you to a place of connection and community, and savor every bite with gratitude and love. And who knows, maybe one day you will create a recipe that will be passed down through generations, just like this Creamy Pasta and Cabbage Salad has been for me.