GOLDMON FAMILY FAVORITE PASTA SALAD

Goldmon Family Favorite Pasta Salad image

This salad was another side that I served on Father's Day. It is one of my Family's Favorite salad items that I always make when we are having a pre Reunion dinner at my brothers house. The recipe makes a lot, & has all but the kitchen sink thrown it. It is an ideal salad to serve at a Family Reunion or large gathering. I made...

Provided by Rose Mary Mogan

Time 45m

Number Of Ingredients 19

Ingredients

1 lb multi colored pasta, your choice, [i used conchiglie gourmet pasta]
1 bag(s) 12 oz.-1 lb. frozen early june peas, thawed & drained
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
2 pt grape tomatoes, halved or left whole
1 bunch green onions, chopped plus 1-med red onion chopped
1 can(s) medium size black olives, drained & halved if desired
4-6 clove garlic, minced
1 can(s) artichoke hearts, drained and cut into large pieces
1 lb total cubed cheese chunks[i used mozzarella & sharp cheddar
6 oz sliced pepperoni [ i used turkey pepperoni]
1 can(s) baby canned corn [chunked]
1/2-1 lb broccoli floweretts
1/2 lb shredded romano or parmesan cheese
1 jar(s) 2.62 oz. size mccormick salad supreme[optional]
1 1/2 c mayonnaise [can use light variety]
1 bottle 16 oz. zesty italian dressing [can use light if desired]
1 tsp oregano or italian seasoning
1 tsp granulated garlic powder[more if desired]
1/2 tsp salt & pepper (optional) taste first before adding

Steps:

1. The prep time in this recipe does not include chill time. The longer it sits the better the flavors blend together. Add the mayo & zesty Italian Dressing to a medium size bowl, & whisk together to blend. Then set aside till needed.
2. Cube both cheeses, halve the tomatoes if desired, chop the red onions, and red bell pepper. Then add to a very large bowl.
3. Add the chopped Green Onions
4. Drain the canned baby corn and cut or break into large chunks, & add to salad bowl.
5. Drain artichokes, and cut into large pieces. Add to salad bowl.
6. Cook pasta according to package directions, but by 2-3 minutes LESS FOR THE AL DENTE' STAGE. Rinse in cold water, drain & add to salad bowl.
7. Separate pepperoni slices and add to bowl as well, reserving a few slices to garnish the top if desired.
8. Sprinkle in the Romano cheese into the salad bowl.
9. Add the full bottle of the McCormick salad supreme, sprinkling over the entire salad.
10. Toss with a large spoon making sure salad is evenly mixed.
11. Now add the prepared salad dressing, and toss to make sure the vegetables are all coated well.
12. Blend together, and Garnish top of salad if desired with reserved pepperoni slices and any thing else you choose. Cover and refrigerate at least 2-3 hours or longer if possible. The longer it sits the better the flavors have a chance to blend together. Serve & enjoy.
13. This by far is one of the best salads on the planet according to my family, they naturally expect it at every reunion where I am involved in the cooking. It serves a big crowd. You can cut this recipe in half or less if desired, and add or delete the items you do not care for.