Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Creamy and crunchy: Combines smooth dressing with crisp vegetables.
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Easy to make: Simple ingredients and quick assembly.
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Crowd-pleasing: Great for gatherings and meal prep.
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Versatile: Works well as a side or light main dish.
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Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, herbs, or proteins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Pasta (such as rotini, macaroni, or shells)
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Shredded cabbage (green and/or purple)
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Shredded carrots
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Mayonnaise
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Apple cider vinegar
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Sugar
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Dijon mustard
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Salt and pepper
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Green onions or chives (optional)
Directions
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Cook pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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Prepare veggies: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and green onions or chives if using.
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Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Combine salad: Add cooled pasta to the vegetables. Pour dressing over and toss until well coated.
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Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6-8
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
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Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken,
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Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, celery, or radishes.
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Tangier dressing: Increase vinegar or add lemon juice.
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Healthier option: Use Greek yogurt or light mayo.
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Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Serve cold; no reheating needed.
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Make ahead: Prepare a day in advance for best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any small or medium pasta shape works well.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Drain pasta well and toss salad just before serving if storing longer.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots?
Yes, it saves time and works perfectly.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Can I add cheese?
Shredded cheddar or feta cheese are tasty additions.
How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Can I make it vegan?
Use vegan mayonnaise and omit any animal-based add-ins.
Can I substitute apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar or lemon juice can be used.
What side dishes go with this salad?
Grilled meats, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes.
Can I freeze coleslaw pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Conclusion
Coleslaw Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that blends creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta for a crowd-pleasing side. Perfect for picnics, parties, or a refreshing meal, it’s a versatile salad that’s sure to satisfy.
Print
Coleslaw Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coleslaw Pasta Salad is a creamy and crunchy salad that combines tender pasta with classic coleslaw veggies tossed in a tangy, flavorful dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side to grilled meats and sandwiches, this easy-to-make dish is versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
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Pasta (rotini, macaroni, or shells)
-
Shredded cabbage (green and/or purple)
-
Shredded carrots
-
Mayonnaise
-
Apple cider vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Dijon mustard
-
Salt and pepper
- Green onions or chives (optional)
Instructions
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Cook pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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Prepare veggies: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions or chives if using.
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Make dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
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Combine salad: Add cooled pasta to veggies. Pour dressing over and toss until well coated.
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Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Add cooked chicken, Include bell peppers, celery, or radishes for extra crunch.For a tangier dressing, increase vinegar or add lemon juice.Substitute Greek yogurt or light mayo for a healthier version.Add hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy kick.
