A good pasta salad recipe can work wonders during the fall, when lunch boxes scream for something beyond a PB&J and tailgate parties need side dishes that don’t required much refrigeration. My Tiger Pasta Salad, prepared with locally-made Fresina’s tiger-shaped pasta, crunchy raw vegetables, roast chicken and smoked provolone delivers plenty of big flavors that will have both kids and fans talking with their mouths full.
Before we get to the recipe, keep the following tips in mind when making any pasta salad. While easy to make, it’s one of those dishes that’s often low on flavor and texture. Here’s how to ensure yours tastes great.
* Use bold flavors. As yummy as pasta is, its neutral profile dilutes the flavors of whatever you add to it. Combining pasta with a balsamic or cider vinegar-based dressing, smoked cheeses, red pepper flakes, fresh herbs and other assertive flavors will make it more successful.