Looking for a creamy, colorful pasta salad with a punch of personality? The Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is the picnic-perfect, potluck-ready side dish that’s equal parts retro charm and modern flavor. This creamy salad gets its name from the rosy hue that comes from a blend of tangy mayo, sweet relish, and just the right amount of seasoning—all clinging to perfectly cooked pasta and crunchy fresh veggies.

This salad is wildly versatile—make it the night before and let the flavors deepen, or whip it up fresh for a spontaneous summer BBQ. It’s beloved for its signature tang and crunch, and you’ll love how easily it comes together with fridge and pantry staples. Whether you’re serving it at a family reunion or sneaking bites straight from the fridge, Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is here to steal the show.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

You’ll want a pasta that holds onto dressing and adds visual appeal. Cavatappi, elbow macaroni, or rotini are all great choices. Their curves and grooves grab onto that luscious creamy dressing and carry the flavor in every bite. Avoid spaghetti or long noodles—they just don’t do the job here.

Ingredients for the Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Cavatappi Pasta: The base of the dish—its spirals catch all the creamy dressing and mix-ins perfectly.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and acts as the rich foundation of the dressing.

Sweet Relish: Offers a pop of tang and sweetness that balances the richness of the mayo.

Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds brightness and cuts through the creaminess.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced for crunch and a slight sharpness that contrasts the sweet and creamy components.

Celery: For that crisp texture and fresh bite in every forkful.

Red Bell Pepper: Brings sweetness, crunch, and bold color.

Salt & Pepper: To round out the flavor and give depth.

Optional: Crumbled Bacon or Shredded Cheese: Add extra savory richness if you’re going for indulgence.

How To Make the Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente—firm enough to hold its shape but not overly soft. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping. Drain well.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet relish, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. This is the flavor base that makes the salad shine.

Step 3: Chop and Add the Veggies

Dice the red onion, celery, and red bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Add them to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to combine and coat.

Step 4: Fold in the Pasta

Add the cooled, drained pasta to the dressing and veggie mixture. Toss everything together until every curl of pasta is dressed and speckled with veggies.

Step 5: Chill and Let It Mingle

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour—or overnight—for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add Final Touches Before Serving

Before serving, give the salad a good stir. If you like, fold in crumbled bacon or shredded cheese for an extra flavor punch. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed.

How to Serve and Store Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Serve this salad cold, straight from the fridge, in a large bowl or on a chilled platter. It’s perfect as a side for grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra color.

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days. If the salad thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a splash of milk or mayo before serving to revive the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can swap it for Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and sour cream if you prefer a lighter option.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and follow the same steps.

How do I keep the salad from drying out in the fridge?

Store it in an airtight container and give it a stir before serving. Add a splash of mayo or vinegar if needed to refresh the texture.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Diced ham, grilled chicken, or even chopped hard-boiled eggs are great additions to bulk it up.

Is this salad spicy?

Not at all! But if you want a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you loved this Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad, you’ll definitely want to try these other refreshing and bold options next:

Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad for smoky, creamy vibes with a street food twist.
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad if you’re craving something classic but with extra zing.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for a warm, cheesy vegetarian option.
Creamy Tortellini Recipe that’s both indulgent and family-friendly.
Red Pepper Rigatoni for a bolder, spicier take on creamy pasta.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go the classic route or add your own twist—maybe spicy pickles or a handful of crispy onions?

I love seeing how others bring their flavor to these dishes. Questions welcome—let’s make it better together.

Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy, tangy, and colorful Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. It’s packed with crunchy veggies, spiral pasta, and a rosy mayo dressing that gets even better with time.