Easy Tangy Pasta Salad with Coleslaw Dressing Recipe
This irresistible pasta salad features al dente ditalini pasta tossed with a crisp coleslaw mix and coated in a creamy, tangy coleslaw dressing made from mayonnaise, dijon mustard, cider vinegar, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or light meal, this salad delights with its balanced flavors and satisfying textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 3/4 cups mayonnaise (Hellmann's preferred for creamy texture)
- 4 tbsp dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp finely grated onion
- 1 tbsp celery seeds
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Salad
- 16 oz ditalini pasta (Barilla recommended)
- 16 oz coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, meaning tender with a slight bite. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Set aside to cool completely.
- Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, dijon mustard, cider vinegar, sugar, and salt until smooth. Add the finely grated onion directly to the wet ingredients to blend evenly into the dressing. Stir in celery seeds and black pepper. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Dressing: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing bowl and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Add Coleslaw Mix: Fold in the coleslaw mix gently to combine without crushing the vegetables, preserving the crisp texture.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl or container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vegetables to soften slightly. Serve chilled. The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance for best taste.
Notes
- Ensure pasta is cooled completely before mixing to keep the salad crisp and avoid sogginess.
- Folding in the coleslaw mix gently maintains the crunchy texture of the vegetables.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and softens the vegetables slightly for a better eating experience.
- Adjust the seasoning of the dressing after combining all ingredients to ensure balanced taste.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
