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Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad

Delicious Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad for Ultimate Summer Fun

Try this Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad for summer gatherings, a refreshing twist on a cheeseburger in salad form.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Any pasta shape can work
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Substitute with vegetable oil if needed
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Opt for red onion for a milder flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic 1/4 tsp garlic powder can substitute per clove
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Or Ground Beef, try ground turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes are a great replacement
  • 1 small Red Onion Green onions work well as a substitute if preferred
  • 1 cup Pickles Use dill or sweet pickles based on your taste
  • 2 cups Shredded Lettuce Spinach can serve as a nice alternative
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Swap for mozzarella or a dairy-free option if desired
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup Barbecue sauce adds a smoky twist
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup Opt for BBQ sauce for a different vibe
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can also be used for lighter mixing

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander, then transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool completely while you prepare the other ingredients.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  4. Add the ground pork to the skillet with the sautéed veggies, breaking it apart. Cook for approximately 7-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease and let the mixture cool slightly.
  5. In the bowl with the cooled rotini pasta, add the meat mixture along with diced cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese. Mix gently until well-distributed.
  6. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of mayonnaise and ¼ cup of ketchup until smooth. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently.
  7. Serve your delicious Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad in bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy warm or chilled, and pair with BBQ chips for an extra crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

The salad can be refreshed with more dressing if needed. Feel free to customize based on preferences.

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