PATRIOTIC PASTA

Patriotic Pasta image

A popular side dish for our Independence Day menu, this hearty pasta salad is practically a meal in itself. It fit into our theme with the bright red cherry tomatoes, white noodles and cauliflower plus blue cheese. The creamy dressing is pleasantly zesty. -Laurie Neverman, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 25m

Yield 12-14 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 22

Ingredients

DRESSING:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
1-1/2 teaspoons milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon honey mustard
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
SALAD:
2-1/2 cups uncooked penne pasta
1 garlic clove, minced
3/4 teaspoon minced fresh basil or 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons olive oil
1-1/2 cups fresh cauliflowerets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped sweet red pepper
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch strips
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients; set aside. Meanwhile cook pasta according to package directions; rinse in cold water and drain. Transfer to a large bowl. , Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute garlic and basil in oil until garlic is tender. Pour over pasta. Add the cauliflower, tomatoes, green onions, red pepper, cheese and dressing; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 143 calories, Fat 9g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 13mg cholesterol, Sodium 192mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 5g protein.