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Confetti Salad — A Colorful, Creamy Pasta Delight
Few dishes bring as much cheer to the table as a creamy pasta salad. It’s cool, comforting, and always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This Confetti Salad lives up to its playful name — brimming with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a creamy, tangy dressing that ties every bite together. It’s a dish that feels right at home at summer cookouts, family reunions, or weekday lunches. Whether you’re prepping ahead for a party or just craving something refreshing, this salad will brighten your plate and your mood.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 (16 oz) package spaghetti
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Set it aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the salad — this helps the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Pasta
Break spaghetti into 1–2 inch pieces before boiling. Cook in salted water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and let cool for about 15 minutes. You can drizzle a small amount of olive oil over it to prevent sticking while it cools.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and celery into small, even pieces. Drain the canned corn well to remove excess liquid. The goal is to create uniform bits that will mix smoothly with the pasta for that “confetti” look.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with all the diced vegetables and corn. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly — the mix should already look bright and festive!
5. Add the Dressing
Pour your prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold the salad until every strand of spaghetti and every piece of veggie is coated in that creamy dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for extra zing.
6. Chill & Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the flavors blend and the salad firm up. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like.
Chef’s Tips & Variations
Switch up the pasta: While spaghetti gives a fun twist, you can easily use rotini, penne, or macaroni for a chunkier, fork-friendly salad.
Add extra crunch: Try adding diced carrots, broccoli florets, or even snap peas for more texture and color.
Boost the protein: Mix in cooked chicken cubes, diced ham, or crispy bacon bits to make this salad a full meal.
Lighter version: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative.
Make it spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a mild kick.
Why It Works
Each ingredient in this salad has a role: the spaghetti adds a satisfying chew, the veggies provide crunch and color, and the creamy dressing ties everything together with richness and a touch of tang. The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and mustard, while Parmesan deepens the umami flavor. It’s the kind of dish that’s simple yet perfectly balanced — satisfying without being heavy.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Confetti Salad can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Store it covered in the refrigerator and stir again before serving. If you notice the pasta absorbing too much dressing overnight, simply stir in a spoonful of sour cream or mayo before serving to freshen it up. It keeps well for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this colorful salad with grilled meats, sandwiches, or barbecue classics. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, and picnics. Serve it in a large glass bowl to showcase its rainbow hues, or portion it into small cups for grab-and-go party servings. It’s equally at home next to smoky ribs as it is beside a light chicken wrap.
Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 320 • Fat: 18g • Saturated fat: 5g • Carbohydrates: 33g • Fiber: 3g • Sugar: 4g • Protein: 7g • Sodium: 460mg
Final Thoughts
Confetti Salad is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration in a bowl. With its creamy texture, lively colors, and irresistible flavor, it captures the joy of home cooking in every bite. Simple to prepare, easy to customize, and endlessly satisfying, it’s one of those recipes that will quickly become a favorite at every gathering. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just brightening your lunchbox, this salad never fails to deliver comfort and color.