Honey Mustard Pasta Salad

Here’s a flavorful Honey Mustard Pasta Salad recipe—perfect for summer potlucks, lunch prep, or a refreshing side dish. It’s creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and loaded with texture.

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🍯 Honey Mustard Pasta Salad

📝 Ingredients:

For the salad:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rotini, penne, or bowties work well)

• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (optional)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or crumbled feta (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped parsley or green onions

For the honey mustard dressing:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• (Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool.

2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon, yellow mustard, honey, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, veggies, (and chicken and cheese if using). Pour dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.

4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Serve: Give it a gentle toss before serving. Garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired.

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🔁 Variations:

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu.

• Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

• Extra crunch: Add sunflower seeds or toasted almonds before serving.

Want a printable version or meal prep tips?