CAJUN PASTA SALAD
This Cajun Pasta Salad is just so good! Really bursting with flavor. Just a little kick, but nothing too much. Perfect for a Summer BBQ!! Yum! If you make this ahead of time (say several hours early...add a little extra water, as it will thicken as it sits in the fridge).
INGREDIENTS
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp good-quality olive oil divided
- 1/2 cup shallots finely minced
- 1 cup red bell pepper cored, seeded, and finely chopped
- 1 cup celery finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp Creole/Cajun, or whole grain Dijon mustard see Note
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce ie, Tobasco, Crystals
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta and cook for 9 minutes, until tender.
- Drain in colander and rinse with cool water.
- Transfer to a large bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients, including the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons water, to thin slightly.
- Adjust seasonings, to taste.
- Add the macaroni and mix.
- Top with chopped parsley.
RECIPE NOTES
- If you can't find Creole or Cajun mustard, any kind of whole grain, or spicy, or even just Dijon work just fine.
- You can make the pasta several hours before serving. Just rinse after cooking, then toss with the oil then cover with plastic wrap. No need to refrigerate.
- You can also make the dressing several hours before serving, after mixing together, cover with plastic wrap, and keep in the refrigerator.
- Just before serving, mix pasta with dressing and a couple tablespoons of water. You don't want the dressing too thick. Best served at room temperature.
site : https://howtofeedaloon.com/cajun-pasta-salad/