Sweet Pasta Salad

On my block, there were 15 kids under the age of 10 who became my Taste Testers.  Through the years, they have developed rather sophisticated palettes. Early on, this retro pasta salad became one of their favorites.  This updated side-dish is portable which makes it perfect for potlucks, office parties and family gatherings.  Feel free to use the fat-free version of the sweetened condensed milk for the sauce.  It’s equally as good and saves a few calories.

Sweet Pasta Salad

4 cups penne, shell or rotini pasta, uncooked

4 carrots, peeled, sliced thin

1 rib of celery, diced or 1 cup red bell pepper, diced

1 medium red onion, chopped

1 ½ cups mayonnaise

½ cup sweetened condensed milk

¾ cup apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon pepper

Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain.  In a large serving bowl, combine the pasta, carrots, celery and onion.  In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, vinegar and pepper. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.  Cover and refrigerate overnight.  Makes 14 servings.