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The Cookout Classic Everyone Asks Me For

If you’ve ever been to one of our family cookouts, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings, then you’ve probably had the pasta salad. This is a recipe my auntie taught me when I was a little girl, and now it’s one of my most-requested dishes. I don’t play about my pasta salad. I use specific ingredients to keep that flavor just right every time.

It’s quick to throw together, packed with fresh flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. So many people have asked for this recipe over the years, so I’m finally sharing it with y’all. Let’s get into it!

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool completely.

2. Sauté the chicken tenderloins with a little oil, (I don’t season the chicken because the season and salad dressing has a lot of sodium). Once cooked through, chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. While the pasta and chicken cool, chop the cucumber, tomatoes, and turkey meat into small, even pieces.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, turkey, cucumbers, and tomatoes.

5. Pour in half the bottle of Zesty Italian dressing and give it a good mix.

6. Sprinkle on the Salad Supreme seasoning start with 2 tablespoons and taste as you go. Add more if needed!

7. Mix everything together until well coated. Chill in the fridge before serving for best flavor.

Tips:

• This pasta salad gets better the longer it sits. Perfect to make a few hours ahead or even the night before.

• If you’re making a double batch for a big event, just double all the ingredients and use the whole bottle of dressing.

• Feel free to add extras like black olives, Parmesan cheese, Pepperoni or bell peppers,  but this base version is always a hit as-is.