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California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This vibrant California Pasta Salad combines perfectly cooked rotini pasta with crispy smoked turkey bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and red onion, all tossed in a zesty natural dressing made with apple cider vinegar and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Chilled and refreshing, it is ideal for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or as a light main or side. The salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors with a colorful presentation that pleases any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups rotini pasta
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Zesty Dressing (natural)

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Seasoning

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the smoked turkey bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then transfer the strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Chop the vegetables: Dice the cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the parsley. This attention to knife work ensures each bite is well balanced.
  4. Make the zesty dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, fresh ground pepper, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Taste and adjust seasoning as desired to make the perfect tangy dressing.
  5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, smoked turkey bacon pieces, chopped veggies, and fresh parsley. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly, making sure everything is evenly coated.
  6. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This step elevates the taste and creates a harmonious dish that truly sings on sunny days.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to ensure a firm bite that holds up well when chilled.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent mushiness.
  • Use fresh, crisp vegetables to enhance texture and color.
  • Prepare the dressing ahead of time to deepen the flavors.
  • Toss the salad gently to keep pasta and veggies intact for the best presentation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: California pasta salad, pasta salad with smoked turkey bacon, summer pasta salad, chilled pasta salad, zesty pasta salad, healthy pasta salad

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/california-pasta-salad/