Rotini Pasta Salad with Cucumbers and Tomatoes

This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light meal or a picnic. It combines the crunch of cucumbers with the juiciness of tomatoes and the delightful twists of rotini pasta.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or regular tomatoes, diced)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (for dressing)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini, diced cucumber, and halved tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, mix black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and tomato sauce to create a dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine everything well.
5. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and toss gently again.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.

Flavor Profile

This pasta salad is light and refreshing, with the crispness of cucumbers and sweet, juicy tomatoes mixing harmoniously with the tang of the tomato sauce and the kick from the spices. The Parmesan adds a creamy, savory finish!

Now, let’s move on to the third recipe:

Spicy Paprika Rotini with Sausage and Parmesan

This dish is hearty and comforting, with the savory flavors of hotdog sausage and the warm spices creating a delightful and playful meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 2 hotdog sausages, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add the sliced hotdog sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rotini to the skillet with the sausage and stir to combine.
4. Sprinkle in the black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt, stirring well to coat the pasta and sausage.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Serve hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.