Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

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Creamy, tangy, and vibrant, the Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is the ultimate showstopper for picnics, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. With its bold pops of color and irresistibly rich flavor, this dish takes pasta salad to a whole new level. Made with rotini pasta, crisp veggies, peppery arugula, and a luscious mayo-based dressing, it’s both comforting and refreshing at the same time.

What sets this pasta salad apart is its perfect balance of textures—al dente pasta, crunchy cucumber, and juicy tomatoes—blended together with the creamiest dressing and a zesty kick from red onion and seasonings. Whether served as a side or the star of the table, this salad always leaves a lasting impression.

Why You’ll Love This Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and a true crowd-pleaser. The ingredients are easy to find, and the flavor payoff is massive for the effort involved. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a vibrant, no-fuss lunch option. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen!

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For best results, go with rotini or any short pasta with ridges. The spiral shape helps hold onto the creamy dressing, giving every bite the perfect ratio of sauce to pasta. Fusilli or bowtie pasta also work wonderfully if you want to change things up.

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Ingredients for the Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

This salad brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients that each play a key role in taste and texture:

• Rotini Pasta: The ideal pasta shape for catching all that creamy dressing in every twist.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as the rich, smooth base for the salad dressing.
• Sour Cream: Adds a tangy note that balances the mayo’s richness.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite that cuts through the creaminess.
• Cucumber: Brings a fresh crunch and coolness to the dish.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Add juicy sweetness and a splash of color.
• Arugula: Lends a peppery flavor that gives the salad a slight kick.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.

How To Make the Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

Slice the red onion thinly, chop the cucumber into small cubes, halve the cherry tomatoes, and roughly chop the arugula if needed.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of dressing, followed by the chopped veggies and arugula. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is best served cold, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy schedules and events. It feeds about 6 to 8 people as a side dish and about 4 if served as a main course. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for maximum flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving again, and if needed, add a spoonful of mayo or sour cream to revive the creaminess.

What to Serve With Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Juicy and smoky, these skewers are a lean protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

BBQ Ribs

Sweet and sticky ribs bring a bold contrast that balances the chilled, tangy salad.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread adds texture and warmth to your meal.

Roasted Veggies

Oven-roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus offer a healthy and colorful companion.

Classic Cheeseburgers

For a picnic or cookout vibe, serve this salad alongside grilled burgers.

Tuna or Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Keep it cool and casual with protein-packed sandwiches on the side.

Baked Salmon

For a more elevated dinner, serve this pasta salad next to a fillet of herby baked salmon.

Fruit Skewers

Finish with a light, sweet touch—fresh fruit skewers make a perfect dessert to match the salad’s brightness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for prepping the night before. Just store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and mayo for a lighter twist without sacrificing creaminess.

What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even sweet corn for extra color and crunch.

Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! This salad is completely vegetarian as is. Just double-check your mayo if you’re buying a store brand.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in Greek yogurt? Add any extra veggies? I love hearing how you all make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other keep things tasty and fresh!

Find more recipes like this on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

The Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes—easy to make, packed with flavor, and beautifully colorful on the table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a party or a quick weekday dinner, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to pasta salad from here on out!

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