Name: Coleslaw Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz elbow macaroni or other small pasta; 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots); 3/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar or honey; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp celery seeds (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup green onions, sliced

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a great way to enjoy the crunch of coleslaw with the heartiness of pasta. It’s colorful, versatile, and comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The creamy dressing ties everything together for a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with just about any main course.

Ingredients

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

Elbow macaroni or other small pasta
Coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Apple cider vinegar
Sugar or honey
Dijon mustard
Celery seeds (optional)
Salt and pepper
Green onions, sliced

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooled pasta, coleslaw mix, and green onions to the dressing.
Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add diced apples or raisins for sweetness.
Mix in shredded chicken for extra protein.
Swap mayonnaise for a lighter dressing with olive oil and lemon juice.
Use tri-color pasta for a more vibrant presentation.
Add chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. This salad does not freeze well because of the creamy dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling, so it’s perfect to make a few hours in advance.

Can I use homemade coleslaw instead of bagged mix?

Yes, shred fresh cabbage and carrots if you prefer homemade.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, rotini, shells, or bow-tie pasta all work well.

Is this salad served cold?

Yes, it’s best served chilled straight from the refrigerator.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Rinsing with cold water after cooking prevents clumping and helps it mix smoothly with the dressing.

Can I make it healthier?

Yes, reduce the mayonnaise and use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely, grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas work great.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

Taste the dressing and add more or less sugar or honey according to preference.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

It’s perfect with grilled meats, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes.

Conclusion

Coleslaw pasta salad is a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying side dish that brings together the best of two summer classics. With its tangy dressing, crisp veggies, and tender pasta, it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite at your next cookout or family meal.