How to Make Perfect Pasta Salad {without a recipe!}

I love pasta salad, and it’s so versatile. You basically boil some pasta, throw in some veggies, and add a dressing. Right? Well…that hasn’t worked out so well for me in the past. I just couldn’t get it quite right. Until now!

Through some trial and error, I have figured out a few tips that make for the perfect pasta salad every time. I have been able to make a little or a lot, use whatever is on hand, and it’s good every time! I have posted these tips (and a basic recipe) over at today. I’d love for you to head over and check it out!

‘Lightened Up’ Loaded Potato Salad

Potato salad is one of those things I kind of have to be in the mood to eat.  Until now.  I think I could eat this as a side almost every day!  Yes, it was that good!  I made this for my family’s 4th of July cookout.

‘Lightened Up’ Loaded Potato Salad 

6-8 small to medium red potatoes – cooked*, cooled and cubed
1 cup plain lowfat yogurt
1/2 cup light mayonnaise
8-10 slices cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided (reduced fat to cut calories)
3 green onions, sliced
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 dash celery salt (can also use seasoning salt)
1 dash garlic powder
1 dash paprika (or cayenne pepper)
  • Gently stir together all the ingredients in a large bowl, reserving a little cheddar, green onion and bacon for garnish.
  • Transfer to a serving dish.
  • Top with reserved shredded cheddar, green onion slices and bacon.  Can be served immediately while still warm, or made ahead of time and served cold.  It was good both ways!
*I cooked my potatoes in a steamer bag in the microwave
 
Adapted from:  
 
Verdict? This was a delicious potato salad, and an excellent side to this-
Yes, I like to see how big I can make my burger!
By making a few ingredient swaps, I was able to greatly reduce the fat and calories in this side dish, without sacrificing flavor. Not to mention, no one realized I had used yogurt and light mayo in the place of the regular stuff!  If you are not a fan of turkey bacon, you could use regular bacon, and just reduce the amount as well.
I’m linking this recipe up at , , , ; , , , (Ingredient Spotlight: Bacon!),