There are certain dishes that transport us back to our childhood, back to endless summer days, family gatherings, and laughter-filled moments. The Amish Pasta Salad is one such dish that holds a special place in my heart. Its burst of colors, crunch of fresh veggies, and that oh-so-creamy dressing always signaled the onset of a memorable meal. It was our summer tradition, the star of our barbecue feasts, and unsurprisingly, it was the dish that vanished first!
A harmonious blend of simplicity and flavor, this pasta salad holds its roots in the Amish community, renowned for its age-old recipes. While this recipe captures the essence of my family’s tradition, the beauty of it lies in its adaptability. Want to throw in a protein or swap out a veggie? Go right ahead and make it your own!
Amish Pasta Salad: A Summer Delight
Gather These:
-1 lb. of your favorite pasta – shells always remind me of home, but any shape works!
-Crisp Veggies: 1 cup each of diced celery, cucumber, red onion, radiant red pepper, and refreshing green pepper.
-A surprise: 1 cup frozen peas
-The Magic Dressing: A blend of 1/2 cup each of mayonnaise and sour cream, 1/4 cup of white vinegar, the same amount of sugar, and a teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
The Making:
Start by dancing with the pasta: cook it as per its package, then drain the energy out.
In a vessel large enough to hold summer memories, tumble in the pasta, celery, cucumber, and all those vibrant veggies.
Now, for the heart of the dish – whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and spices in a bowl till they sing in harmony.
Time to marry the two! Pour that delightful dressing over your pasta medley, making sure every nook and corner gets a touch of its magic.
Let it chill in the refrigerator, soaking up all the flavors for at least 2 hours. The longer, the better.
Serve with a smile, and watch as it becomes the star of your meal.