Description
UpChuckin’ Pumpkin Loaded Pasta Salad is a vibrant and delightful dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This colorful pasta salad combines rotini pasta with roasted red peppers, olives, and savory chicken, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for Halloween parties, potlucks, or any festive gathering, this hearty salad not only pleases the eyes but also satisfies the palate. Serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin for an eye-catching presentation that adds charm to your table. Its fresh ingredients and bold flavors make it a versatile choice for lunch or as a party appetizer that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (diced)
- 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
- 2 oz black olives (sliced)
- 1/2 cucumber (peeled and diced)
- 12 slices chopped chicken
- 10 chopped cheddar cheese sticks
- 1 cup sliced turkey sausage sticks
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2–3/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with roasted red peppers, onion, olives, cucumber, chopped chicken, cheddar cheese sticks, and turkey sausage.
- Pour Italian dressing over the mixture and toss gently until well coated. Adjust dressing as desired.
- Serve in a bowl or hollowed-out pumpkin. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added crunch, consider tossing in toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts. Feel free to customize with other vegetables or proteins based on your taste preferences.