This is my absolute favorite pasta salad. I made this up in my college days, although I’m sure I’m not the first with this brilliant idea! It is a perfect salad to bring to your summer barbeque!
It is so quick and easy to make and it always tastes delicious. You can’t forget to add the key ingredients… trust me, it just does not taste as good without them! The secret to the success of this salad is celery salt and dill, lots of it!
Summer Pasta Salad
1 (12 ounces) box tri-color rotini pasta
1 (15 ounces) can black beans, or kidney beans
1 can black olives, drained
1 small or medium cucumber, chopped
1/4 to 1/2 cup bacon pieces (ie. Hormel brand)
1 large roma tomato, chopped
1 cup broccoli, chopped small
1/2 to 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 to 2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup Ranch dressing, more or less to taste
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon celery salt
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Lots and lots of dill, trust me!
Fry the bacon pieces until crispy. This brings out the flavor and is much better than just tossing them in! Cook the pasta according to directions and drain. Rinse with cold water to cool just a bit.
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Use as much or as little dill as you like. I love it with a bunch in, it gives it a very unique and bold flavor that is to die for!
Can be served warm or chilled. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Do you have a favorite summer salad recipe? Any favorite summer memories? I’d love to hear them!
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