Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad

Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad Recipe | Dijon Mustard, Tomatoes, Cucumbers & More

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 7 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This refreshing salad is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.

History

This recipe has been a favorite among families for generations. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. The combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of dijon mustard
1 tbsp of minced green onion
1 tsp of minced garlic
2 tbsp of vinegar
1 maggi cube
a dash of salt and pepper
0.5 package of pasta
6 small tomatoes
1 onion
2 small cucumbers or avocados
1 lemon

How to prepare

In a cup, mix together mustard, green onion, garlic, vinegar, and maggi cube.
Slowly add oil while constantly stirring.
Add salt and pepper.
Cook the pasta in salted water for about 5 – 7 minutes.
Cut the tomatoes into small pieces, dice the onion, and cut the cucumber or avocado into small pieces.
Squeeze lemon juice over everything to keep it fresh.
Set aside.
Drain the pasta.
To cool it down, pour cool, treated water over it and drain.
Repeat the cooling process.
Add the veggies to the pasta and pour the vinaigrette over it.
It is best to let it sit for a while before eating.

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Include your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, olives, or artichokes.
Swap out the vinaigrette dressing for a creamy ranch or Caesar dressing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.

- For a creamier dressing, you can add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the vinaigrette.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. It is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, such as penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.

- If you don't have dijon mustard, you can use regular mustard or honey mustard instead.

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 add the avocado right before serving to prevent it from browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this pasta salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This pasta salad pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body. The pasta and vegetables in this salad are rich in complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and provide a steady source of energy.

Fats

The avocado in this recipe is a healthy source of fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The vinaigrette dressing also contains healthy fats from the olive oil.

Proteins

While this recipe is not high in protein, you can easily add protein by including grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while onions provide antioxidants and fiber. Avocados are rich in vitamin E and healthy fats.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard and may contain gluten from the pasta. If you have allergies to these ingredients, be sure to use gluten-free pasta and omit the mustard.

Summary

Overall, this recipe is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, pasta, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side dish at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Evelyn in her cozy kitchen. We were chatting about our favorite recipes and she suddenly pulled out a recipe card from an old cookbook.

"Have you ever tried this pasta salad before?" Evelyn asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I shook my head, curious to see what she had in store. As Evelyn read out the ingredients and steps, my mouth watered at the thought of the delicious combination of flavors. It was a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a summer picnic or a family gathering.

Evelyn explained that she had learned the recipe from her aunt who was a renowned chef in Italy. She had tweaked the recipe over the years, adding her own personal touch to make it even more delicious. I couldn't wait to try it out myself and bring it to my next family gathering.

As soon as I got home, I gathered all the ingredients and got to work in my own kitchen. The recipe was easy to follow, and the end result was a colorful and flavorful pasta salad that was a hit with my family. From that moment on, Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad became a staple in my recipe collection.

Over the years, I have made this pasta salad for countless gatherings and special occasions. It has always been a crowd favorite, with people asking for the recipe and coming back for seconds and thirds. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this delicious dish wherever I go.

As I make the Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad now, memories of that day with Evelyn flood back to me. The laughter, the chatter, and the delicious aroma of the pasta salad cooking in the kitchen. It reminds me of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

I am grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover this recipe. It has become more than just a dish to me, it is a symbol of friendship, love, and the joy of cooking. I am grateful for the connections it has helped me forge with others, and the joy it has brought to countless gatherings and celebrations.

So, the next time you are looking for a quick and tasty dish to bring to a gathering, why not give Kwik-n-Tastee Pasta Salad a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just follow the simple steps, add a dash of love and creativity, and watch as this dish brings smiles to the faces of all who taste it.

I am grateful for the joy and memories that this recipe has brought into my life, and I hope it can do the same for you. Happy cooking!