Pasta salad with mozzarella, tomato, and basil
FOOD NEWS
Pasta Salad Is Better When Fused With Two Other Classics
BY KYLE GRACE MILLS
Pasta salad is a flexible meal that can be tailored to any taste or occasion, but if you’re stumped for ingredient ideas, turn to two other “salads” for inspiration.
If you want to add plenty of protein and flavor to your pasta salad, take a hint from egg salad and tuna salad, which balance creamy and crunchy textures with lots of flavor.
Think of pairing penne or bowtie pasta salad with boiled eggs and flaked tuna, plus flavorings like pickles, celery, relish, mayo, mustard, vinegar, oil, or hot sauce.
You can get even more creative with curry spice, za'atar, or even buffalo sauce. If you want a lighter variation, try using Greek yogurt or mashed avocado instead of mayo.
A balanced ratio of creamy to dry elements. Pasta and canned tuna can be quite dry, so use plenty of dressing, or boil your eggs so the yolk is softer and mash them up more.