Chaos-Style Funfetti Birthday Pasta (Print)

Vibrant pasta dish with colorful veggies, crunchy toppings, and creamy dressing for festive gatherings.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
03 - 1 cup diced bell pepper (mix of colors)
04 - 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
05 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
06 - 1/3 cup sliced radishes
07 - 1/4 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen)

→ Crunchy & Fun Additions

08 - 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (edible nonpareils, optional, for garnish)
09 - 1/3 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
10 - 1/3 cup salted, roasted sunflower seeds
11 - 1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions

→ Dressing

12 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
13 - 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
14 - 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
15 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
16 - 1 tsp honey
17 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
18 - 1/2 tsp salt
19 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, sliced radishes, and sweet corn kernels.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
04 - Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Fold in the halved mini mozzarella balls, salted roasted sunflower seeds, and chopped chives or green onions.
06 - Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Just before serving, scatter rainbow sprinkles over the top for a festive appearance, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables and add ins
  • Makes a stunning centerpiece for birthday parties or potlucks
  • Perfect make ahead dish that actually improves with time in the refrigerator
02 -
  • Perfect for meal prep and actually tastes better after refrigeration
  • Kid friendly way to incorporate more vegetables into meals
  • Versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or special celebrations
  • Works beautifully as both a side dish or main course with added protein