Name: UpChuckin' Pumpkin Loaded Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz multicolored rotini pasta; 1/2 cup Italian dressing; 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers; 1/2 diced yellow onion; 2 oz can sliced black olives; 1/2 large diced cucumber; 12 slices chopped chicken; 10 chopped cheese sticks (e.g., cheddar); 1 cup sliced turkey sausage; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Small pie pumpkin for serving

Description

Indulge in the festive flavors of UpChuckin’ Pumpkin Loaded Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that brings the essence of autumn to your gatherings. This colorful salad combines vibrant rotini pasta with roasted red peppers, crunchy cucumbers, savory meats, and creamy cheeses, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for Halloween parties or casual get-togethers, this salad not only dazzles with its presentation when served in a hollowed-out pumpkin but also offers a taste sensation that will please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy it chilled to let the flavors meld beautifully, making it an easy make-ahead option for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz multicolored rotini pasta
1/2 cup Italian dressing
1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers
1/2 diced yellow onion
2 oz can sliced black olives
1/2 large diced cucumber
12 slices chopped chicken
10 chopped cheese sticks (e.g., cheddar)
1 cup sliced turkey sausage
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Small pie pumpkin for serving

Instructions

Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with roasted red peppers, onion, olives, cucumber, chicken, cheese sticks, and turkey sausage.
Add Italian dressing and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more dressing if needed.
Serve in a hollowed-out small pie pumpkin or a serving dish, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Chill before serving to enhance flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Customize your salad by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins based on preference. For added freshness, garnish with herbs like parsley or basil just before serving.