Pat'S Pasta
Pat's Pasta is a vibrant, creamy pasta salad with fresh vegetables, olives, and cheddar cheese, perfect for casual gatherings or a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta according to package directions; rinse in cold water and drain well.
- Combine chopped green onion, diced celery, sliced green sweet pepper, black olives, and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Blend in enough mayonnaise to moisten and hold the ingredients together well.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the vegetable mixture.
- Check for the correct amount of mayonnaise and adjust if necessary.
- Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding Greek yogurt as a substitute for half of the mayonnaise. You can also incorporate other vegetables like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch. This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you're looking for a lighter version, use whole wheat rotini pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pat's Pasta as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues, or as a light main course for lunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or complementing it with a slice of Grandma Rohde'S Chocolate Chip Cookies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra mayonnaise to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can serve it cold as a pasta salad or warm it in a microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat'S Pasta contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Pat's Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pat's Pasta a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will develop even more overnight, making it a great option for potlucks or gatherings.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy twist. Vegan cheese alternatives also work well if you're following plant-based diets.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free rotini pasta. There are many high-quality options available that will work well in this dish without sacrificing taste or texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).