Crunchy Coleslaw Pasta Salad 🥗🍝

This refreshing and vibrant pasta salad combines the crunchy texture of coleslaw with the heartiness of pasta, making it an ideal side dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or light lunch. It's colorful, full of flavor, and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 cups of cooked pasta (fusilli or rotini work best)
• 2 cups of shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup of shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup of green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup of cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken (optional)

For the dressing

• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, and parsley. If you're using chicken, add that as well.

🥗 The combination of pasta and veggies makes this dish not only delicious but also colorful and appealing!

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to your liking.

• Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Toss gently to combine and ensure all the ingredients are coated.

🥄 Be mindful when tossing; you want everything mixed without crushing the pasta or veggies!

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the chicken and use a vegan mayonnaise substitute. This will still make for a satisfying main dish! 🌱
• Crunch Factor: Add in some sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunch!
• Zesty Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Switch It Up: Experiment with your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh spin.

💡 This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep! The flavors only get better as they sit together. Enjoy!