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4th july pasta salad family

Easy 4th july pasta salad family

4th July pasta salad family: easy family pasta salad ideal for kids potluck side, quick preparation with great taste and versatility. Try now!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup halal-certified cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup green olives
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 oz rotini and cook according to package directions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small chunks, and mince the red onion finely. The smaller pieces mix better into your 4th of july pasta salad family and distribute the flavor more evenly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as you go because everyone's palate is different. This simple dressing comes together in under a minute and beats store-bought versions by miles.
  4. Put the slightly cooled pasta into a large bowl. Add the shredded chicken, diced vegetables, green olives, and cheddar cheese. Pour the lemon dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly.
  5. Make sure every strand gets coated with that delicious dressing. The pasta will look a little dry at first, but it'll absorb the liquid beautifully as it sits. I always give it one more toss after 5 minutes to redistribute everything evenly.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes if you have time, though this easy family pasta salad is totally fine to serve right away. The cold version tastes fresher for potlucks and backyard parties. Before serving, give it another quick toss and taste to see if it needs a pinch more salt or lemon.