How to Fake Your Way Through a Pasta Salad

Social gatherings are always fun, no matter what season. Late fall and early winter are full of holiday gatherings and the summer is full of backyard barbecues. Whatever the excuse for the party there is a good chance that it will be a potluck affair. If you are too busy to put together your signature potluck dish to pass, don't worry that you will have to arrive empty handed. Use this trick and you can prepare a delicious pasta salad in almost no time--no waiting for the pasta to boil, no waiting for the salad to marinate. The other party goers will love it and no one ever has to know your secret--unless you confess!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Very basic deli pasta salad
• Various vegetables
• Fresh basil
• Cubed cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Serving bowl

1. Stop by the deli section at the grocery store and browse the selection of pasta salads available. Look for the one with the fewest ingredients. If there is any that consists solely of pasta, dressing and seasoning, make that your choice. Buy a little less than you think you will need to serve at the party.
2. Head to the produce department and take a look at what is in season. Almost anything can be added to a pasta salad so just browse until you find at least three things you'd like to add. Peppers, onion, broccoli, cucumber, squash, tomato, pea pods, and green beans are all excellent choices. If you are really feeling pressed for time just grab a few bags of ready to eat vegetables that come cut and trimmed, ready for use.
3. Grab a bunch or two of fresh basil and add it to your cart.
4. Stop by the dairy section and grab a bag or two of cubed cheese. If you don't have any grated parmesan cheese on hand at home, you'll need that too. Make your purchases and head home.
5. Wash and chop your vegetables. Rinse the basil.
6. Use your favorite serving bowl and pour the pasta inside. Add the vegetables and cheese and gently stir.
7. Sprinkle the top of the salad with torn basil leaves and parmesan cheese. Cover your dish and head to the potluck!

Tips & Warnings

• If the salad needs an extra kick, just sprinkle with herbed garlic and pepper before serving