Pin This whimsical pasta salad brings carnival-inspired flavors right to your dining table, combining sweet fruits with creamy dressing and colorful pasta for a truly unique dish that delights both kids and adults alike. The unexpected combination of cotton candy grapes and creamy yogurt dressing creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that will surprise your taste buds in the best possible way.
I first created this pasta salad for my daughter's carnival-themed birthday party, and it was such a hit that guests were asking for the recipe before they even left. Now it has become our signature dish for neighborhood gatherings, especially when we want something that stands out from traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients
- Tricolor rotini pasta: 12 oz Adds vibrant colors that enhance the carnival theme and holds the creamy dressing perfectly
- Cotton candy grapes: 2 cups These specialty grapes have a natural cotton candy flavor that makes this salad unique. Look for them at specialty grocers during summer months
- Strawberries: 1 cup Adds bright color and natural sweetness. Choose ripe but firm berries for best texture
- Pineapple chunks: 1 cup Brings tropical tanginess that balances the sweeter elements. Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor but canned works in a pinch
- Mini marshmallows: 1/3 cup Creates surprising pockets of sweetness throughout the salad. Choose colorful varieties for extra visual appeal
- Vanilla Greek yogurt: 1 cup Forms the base of our creamy dressing while adding protein. Select a high quality brand with real vanilla flecks for best flavor
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup Adds richness and tanginess to balance the sweetness. Full fat version works best for creaminess
- Honey: 2 tbsp Natural sweetener that brings the dressing together. Local honey adds subtle floral notes
- Lemon juice: 1 tsp Brightens all flavors and prevents fruit from browning
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp Enhances the dessert like quality of this unique salad. Pure extract rather than imitation makes a noticeable difference
- Rainbow sprinkles: 2 tbsp Optional but adds festive carnival flair to the presentation
- Fresh mint leaves: Optional garnish that adds color and refreshing aroma
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the tricolor rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten.
- Cool the Pasta:
- Immediately drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water, tossing gently with your hands to cool it completely. This stops the cooking process and removes excess starch that would make the pasta stick together. Allow to drain fully for about 5 minutes, shaking the colander occasionally to remove excess water.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla Greek yogurt, sour cream, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until completely smooth and well blended, about 1 minute. The dressing should have a pourable but thick consistency that will coat the pasta and fruits.
- Prepare the Fruits:
- Rinse the cotton candy grapes and slice them in half for easier eating. Hull and slice the strawberries into bite sized pieces. If using fresh pineapple, core and cut into small chunks about 1/2 inch in size. Pat all fruit dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture that would dilute the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Using a large spatula or spoon, gently fold the pasta until it is completely coated with dressing. Add the prepared grapes, strawberries, pineapple chunks, and mini marshmallows. Continue folding gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Garnish and Chill:
- Transfer the completed salad to a serving bowl, smoothing the top with a spoon. Sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles if using and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 4 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld together and for the pasta to absorb some of the dressing.
Pin The cotton candy grapes truly are the star ingredient in this unique pasta salad. I discovered them at a farmers market several years ago and was amazed at how they naturally taste exactly like cotton candy without any added sugar. My family now looks forward to their brief summer season, and we always set aside a bunch specifically for making this pasta salad.
Make It Ahead
This pasta salad is perfect for preparing up to 24 hours in advance, making it ideal for busy party planning. The flavors actually develop and improve as the salad chills in the refrigerator. If making more than a few hours ahead, I recommend reserving about 1/4 cup of the dressing to stir in just before serving, as the pasta will absorb some of the moisture. The marshmallows will also soften slightly over time, creating a delightful texture contrast with the pasta and fruits.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer Version Replace some of the grapes with fresh blueberries and add diced peaches for a summer fruit explosion
Fall Version Substitute diced apples and dried cranberries for a harvest inspired twist
Winter Holiday Version Add pomegranate arils and use red and green pasta for a festive Christmas look
Spring Version Incorporate mandarin orange segments and kiwi slices for bright springtime flavors
Serving Suggestions
This unique pasta salad works beautifully alongside grilled chicken or as part of a brunch spread. For a complete carnival themed meal, serve with corn dogs, freshly popped popcorn, and lemonade. The colorful presentation makes it perfect for children's parties, but the sophisticated flavor combinations appeal to adults as well. For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in martini glasses or mason jars for a portable option at picnics.
Ingredient Substitutions
No cotton candy grapes available Use regular green grapes and add 1/4 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring extract to the dressing
Dairy free option Substitute coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt and coconut cream for sour cream
Gluten free version Use your favorite gluten free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten free
Lower sugar option Omit marshmallows and sprinkles, use plain Greek yogurt with a touch of stevia instead of vanilla yogurt
Pin Success Stories
This pasta salad has become my signature potluck dish, earning me invitations to gatherings just so I'll bring it along! The first time I served it at a neighborhood block party, people couldn't believe the unique flavor combination actually worked. One friend's picky eater child who normally avoids fruits ate three servings and asked for the recipe to make at home. Another memorable moment was watching the expressions at a family reunion when I revealed that the sweet grape flavor was completely natural and not artificially flavored at all.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use different grapes if cotton candy grapes are unavailable?
Yes, any sweet, seedless green or red grapes can substitute for cotton candy grapes with delicious results.
- → How long should I chill the salad before serving?
For best flavor and texture, chill for at least 20 minutes before serving, but longer chilling is also fine.
- → Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Most ingredients are vegetarian, but check marshmallow and sprinkle labels for gelatin or other additives.
- → What can I use instead of rainbow sprinkles?
Try toasted coconut flakes, extra fruit, or omit entirely for a less sweet, more classic presentation.
- → Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble a few hours before serving and refrigerate. Add sprinkles and mint just before serving for freshness.
- → What drink pairs well with this dish?
Lemonade or a fruit-forward sparkling wine match well with the sweet, creamy flavors of this salad.