For the Salad:

Pasta:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni or rotini, shells, or penne

Vegetables and Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper diced
• 1/2 cup celery finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots shredded or finely diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas thawed
• 1/4 cup pickles or relish chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs sliced or chopped (optional)

Protein Options (optional):

• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup canned tuna in water drained
• 1 cup grilled or roasted chicken breast diced
• 1 cup cheese cubed (cheddar, mozzarella, or a sharp cheese)

For the Dressing:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon yellow or Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Herbs and Spices optional:
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed

For Garnishing:

• Fresh herbs dill, parsley, or chives, finely chopped
• A dash of paprika
• Extra sliced hard-boiled eggs optional