Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Catalina dressing
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and cucumber.
- Toss gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Catalina dressing, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- If using, fold in cooked shrimp or shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
- Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Chilling enhances flavor and texture.
- Add extra dressing if the salad dries out after refrigeration.
- Use French dressing if Catalina is unavailable.
- Customize with proteins like chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Add celery or carrots for extra crunch.
- Substitute part of the mayonnaise with yogurt for a lighter version.
- Best served cold and not suitable for freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
