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Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad

Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad: A Fun Twist on Your Favorite Dish

A refreshing Jimmy Buffett Pasta Salad that combines cheeseburger flavors into a delightful meal, perfect for gatherings or weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Any similar pasta shape can be used.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can replace with canola or avocado oil.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt or sour cream are alternatives.
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup BBQ sauce can be used for a smoky twist.
For the Salad
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Can substitute with ground beef or turkey.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Red onion can be used for a sharper taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can use garlic powder (1/4 tsp) in a pinch.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes or bell peppers can be used.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can omit for milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Pickles Dill relish or chopped olives are substitutes.
  • 2 cups Lettuce Spinach or arugula can also be used.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Swap for mozzarella or pepper jack if desired.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add ground pork to the skillet, breaking it apart. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini, cooled pork, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped pickles, and shredded lettuce. Crumble in cheddar cheese and toss gently.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ketchup to create a dressing. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss carefully until coated. Chill for a few minutes to enhance flavors.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy it warm or chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refresh with more dressing before serving.

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