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–+ servings
Pasta Salad Cups Picnic Idea

Pasta Salad Cups Picnic Idea for Fresh & Flavorful Fun

Pasta Salad Cups Picnic Idea is a vibrant and refreshing make-ahead dish perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Rotini Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or elbow macaroni.
For the Veggies
  • 1 medium Cucumber Can substitute with bell peppers.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes can be used instead.
  • 1/2 cup Olives Use black or green olives based on preference.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Fresh basil can be used for a different flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Greek vinaigrette or homemade lemon-herb dressing can be used.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prep the Vegetables: Chop cucumbers into bite-sized chunks, halve cherry tomatoes, slice olives, and finely chop parsley.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and parsley. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss gently.
  4. Season to Taste: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust dressing for moisture.
  5. Portion into Cups: Fill small cups evenly with the pasta salad mixture. Layer ingredients for visual appeal.
  6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate cups for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Prepare ahead for stress-free picnicking and reserve some dressing to add just before serving to avoid sogginess. Adjust ingredient ratios based on preference.

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