10-Minute Ensalada Fría | Refreshing Summer Salad

 

10-Minute Ensalada Fría | A Refreshing Summer Salad You’ll Crave All Season

When the heat is on and the stove is off-limits, there’s nothing better than a quick, cool, and flavorful dish. Enter: Ensalada Fría—a refreshing, creamy pasta salad that's perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners.

Even better? It comes together in just 10 minutes, making it your go-to summer salad for when you're short on time but big on flavor.

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🥗 What is Ensalada Fría?

Ensalada fría (literally "cold salad") is a chilled, mayonnaise-based pasta salad popular in Latin American and Caribbean kitchens—especially in Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Cuban households.

It's cool, creamy, tangy, and endlessly customizable. Traditional versions often include cooked pasta, veggies, ham or tuna, and a creamy dressing, making it both refreshing and satisfying.

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🍴 10-Minute Ensalada Fría Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells work best)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)

• ½ cup cooked ham, diced (or substitute with tuna)

• ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced

• ¼ cup green peas (canned or thawed if frozen)

• ¼ cup carrots, finely chopped or shredded

• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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🕒 Instructions:

1. Cook and Cool the Pasta
Boil your pasta until al dente (about 7–8 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, and a dash of salt and pepper. Add a splash of lime juice if using.

3. Add the Ingredients
Fold in the ham, veggies, and cooled pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.

4. Chill or Serve Immediately
If you have time, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Otherwise, dig in right away!

5. Garnish and Enjoy
Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and serve cold.

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🌿 Customize It Your Way!

This salad is super flexible. Mix and match based on what’s in your fridge:

• Protein swap: Try tuna, shredded chicken, or turkey instead of ham.

• Veggie options: Add corn, celery, cucumber, or olives.

• Go vegan: Use plant-based mayo and skip the meat.

• Add a kick: A dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeño adds heat.

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🌞 Perfect For:

• Summer BBQs

• Beach trips

• Potluck parties

• Light lunch or dinner

• Meal prep for the week

It’s one of those dishes that gets even better the next day!

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🥄 Final Thoughts

This 10-minute Ensalada Fría is the ultimate warm-weather side dish—quick, cool, creamy, and totally satisfying. Whether you serve it at your next cookout or prep it ahead for a no-fuss lunch, it’s sure to become a summertime staple.

Ready to chill out? Whip up this easy salad and enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer—no sweat, no stress, all flavor.