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Hawaiian Pasta Salad

Hawaiian Pasta Salad
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Hawaiian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, combining sweet pineapple, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or as a colorful, flavorful side dish, this easy-to-make salad blends tropical flavors with familiar pasta, offering a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory tastes that delight both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Produce

  • 2 cups cooked rotini or macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Protein

  • 1/2 cup diced ham or cooked bacon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini or macaroni and cook until al dente following package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: Dice pineapple into bite-sized chunks, chop red bell pepper into small pieces, finely slice green onions, and if using, chop ham or bacon into small bits.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold cooled pasta, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, green onions, and optional ham or bacon into the dressing. Mix until evenly coated without overmixing to preserve texture.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain best texture.
  • Chill salad before serving to deepen flavors and thicken dressing.
  • Use fresh pineapple for brighter, juicier flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding honey or substituting vinegar with pineapple juice.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for enhanced taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian pasta salad, tropical pasta salad, pineapple pasta salad, summer salad, creamy pasta salad, potluck salad, pasta side dish

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