Description

Cool, creamy, and colorfully nostalgic, Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is a standout dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or weekday lunches. This quick and easy recipe is packed with vibrant veggies, a tangy-creamy dressing, and savory plant-based bacon bits—making it one of the best dinner ideas or lunchbox-ready side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound rotini pasta
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup plant-based bacon bits
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente, following package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Dice red onion, celery, green bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Add to the bowl with the dressing.
Step 4: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and plant-based bacon bits. Stir gently to combine.
Step 6: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7: Before serving, give it a good stir. Add a touch more mayo or lemon juice if needed.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 1 hour for best flavor and texture. Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for a brighter, tangier twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Cold Assembly
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 570 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg

Keywords: quick pasta salad, cold pasta salad, summer recipes, party side dishes, creamy pasta salad, retro recipes