Name: Confetti Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16 oz) package spaghetti; 1 red pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1 large cucumber, diced; 3 stalks celery, diced; 1 can whole kernel corn, drained; Dressing:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

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Confetti Salad is a colorful, refreshing pasta salad loaded with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a make-ahead side dish, this salad is vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of pasta, fresh veggies, and a rich dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Confetti Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and colorful: A mix of red peppers, cucumbers, celery, and corn makes this salad visually appealing.
Creamy and tangy: The parmesan-mayo-sour cream dressing gives a rich, flavorful coating.
Make-ahead friendly: Chilling allows the flavors to meld, perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Versatile: Can be served as a side dish or a light main course for lunch.
Vegetarian: A satisfying dish suitable for meatless meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad:

spaghetti
red pepper, diced
red onion, diced
cucumber, diced
celery, diced
whole kernel corn, drained

Dressing:

mayonnaise
sour cream
grated Parmesan cheese
white vinegar
sugar
Dijon mustard
Worcestershire sauce
onion powder
salt
black pepper

Directions

In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
Break spaghetti into 1–2 inch segments and boil until al dente. Drain and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
In a large salad bowl, combine cooled pasta, red pepper, red onion, cucumber, celery, and corn. Mix to combine.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Cover and chill for 1 hour to allow flavors to develop before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Inactive Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Change the pasta: Use rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta for a different texture.
Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream.
Add herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or chives enhance the flavor.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This salad is served cold and does not require reheating.
For best texture, avoid storing for too long as the pasta may absorb excess dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for an hour or longer as the flavors meld.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely, any gluten-free spaghetti or pasta shape will work.

Can I substitute vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or peas can be used.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it’s vegetarian as written. You can also make it vegan by substituting plant-based mayo and sour cream.

Can I make the dressing lighter?

Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the sour cream for a lighter option.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes, lightly steamed or blanched fresh corn works well.

How long does this salad keep?

Up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Toss before serving to redistribute dressing.

Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes, extra grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar can be added for more flavor.

Should I rinse the pasta?

Rinsing is optional. Rinse only if you want to cool it quickly and prevent sticking.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger mixing bowl or container.

Conclusion

Confetti Salad is a colorful, creamy, and flavorful pasta salad perfect for any gathering or meal. With fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and easy preparation, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a light main. Chill before serving to let the flavors meld and enjoy a vibrant, crowd-pleasing salad.

Jessica