Pasta salad

Pasta salad is an incredibly versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. Made with various types of pasta, it is typically served chilled and mixed with a flavorful dressing such as vinegar, oil, or mayonnaise. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, pasta salad is especially popular during the warmer months of spring and summer, although it's delightful year-round.

The charm of pasta salad lies in its adaptability. You can keep it simple with just macaroni and mayonnaise or indulge in a medley of pasta shapes, fresh vegetables, cheeses, meats, and even seafood. The possibilities are endless!

Here’s a handy tip for making pasta salad: rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to prevent it from becoming sticky and clumping together. Another trick is to toss the pasta with a bit of oil, which helps keep everything nicely separated.

In Australia and New Zealand, pasta salad gained popularity in the 1990s. Commercial versions often feature cooked pasta, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and celery, similar to the classic American macaroni salad.