Curry Infused Noodle Salad

An Epicurean Adventure to South Africa: Discovering Kerrie Noedelslaai

Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant landscapes of South Africa with this traditional, curried pasta salad recipe, affectionately known as ‘Kerrie Noedelslaai’. More than just a side dish, this recipe is a true carnival of sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors, harmoniously blended with delightful textures that promise to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Forget what you think you know about pasta salads – this South African gem stands in a league of its own, offering a unique taste experience that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying.

At its heart, this beloved salad features tender pasta shells, perfectly coated in a rich, flavorful dressing. This signature sauce delivers a captivating balance of tanginess from vinegar, sweetness from sugar and chutney, and a gentle warmth from fragrant curry powder. The experience is further elevated by the delightful crunch of finely diced red bell pepper and crisp red onion, adding not only texture but also a burst of fresh, vibrant color to every forkful. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish, meticulously crafted to awaken your taste buds with its complex profile.

The beauty of Kerrie Noedelslaai lies in its straightforward preparation. In just four easy steps, you can create this culinary masterpiece: simply cook the pasta to perfection, finely chop your fresh vegetables, whisk together the captivating dressing, and then combine everything into a luscious, cohesive salad. It’s an ideal recipe for home cooks of all skill levels, promising impressive results with minimal fuss. Prepare to be enchanted by the ease and deliciousness of this authentic South African staple!

This inherent make-ahead quality makes Kerrie Noedelslaai an indispensable dish for a wide array of occasions. It’s truly perfect for sunny picnics, ensuring you have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal without any last-minute stress. It’s also an excellent addition to lunch boxes, providing a vibrant and hearty meal that stays fresh and flavorful. Most importantly, it’s an absolute staple for the all-important South African barbecue, or ‘braai’ as it’s affectionately known. Alongside grilled meats, this salad offers a refreshing and flavorful counterpoint, cementing its place as a beloved component of traditional South African feasts.

Its immense popularity throughout South Africa is a testament to its irresistible appeal. Known universally as ‘Kerrie Noedelslaai’, it evokes a sense of home and tradition for many. If you’re planning a larger gathering and searching for other impressive make-ahead salad recipes that perfectly complement the South African culinary tradition, we have several recommendations. Explore our creamy South African potato salad with condensed milk for a comforting classic, or try an elegant creamy Italian pasta salad. For another curried option, our quick curry rice salad is a fantastic choice, or opt for a lighter yet equally satisfying healthy brown rice salad. And for a sweet finish to your South African feast, don’t miss our authentic South African milk tart, a truly delightful dessert.

Alternatively, for a comprehensive selection of dishes ideal for outdoor cooking and entertaining, take a look at our ultimate collection of BBQ salad recipes. You’re sure to find something to inspire your next braai!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This South African Curry Pasta Salad

This Kerrie Noedelslaai recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to be savored. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

1. A Symphony of Flavors: The star of this dish is undoubtedly its unique curry dressing. It masterfully blends spicy warmth, refreshing tanginess, and a subtle sweetness, creating a complex and incredibly addictive flavor profile that excites the palate.
2. Surprisingly Filling & Satisfying: When a simple green salad won’t cut it, this substantial pasta salad steps in. It’s hearty enough to serve as a satisfying main course or a robust side, ensuring everyone feels nourished and content.
3. Effortless Preparation: Designed for convenience, this recipe is remarkably easy to prepare. With minimal cooking and chopping, you can whip up a batch with ease, making it perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.
4. The Ultimate Make-Ahead Meal: As mentioned, this salad thrives when made in advance. Preparing it the day before not only saves you time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to deepen and meld, tasting even better.
5. Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You’ll be delighted to find that most of the ingredients required for this delicious salad are likely already in your pantry or easily accessible at any local grocery store. No exotic or hard-to-find items needed!
6. Customizable Spice Levels: Whether you prefer a gentle hum of heat or a fiery kick, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Easily adjust the amount of Tabasco or curry powder to perfectly match your personal spice preference.
7. Naturally Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe is a fantastic choice for those following plant-based diets. Naturally free of meat and dairy, it offers a delicious and inclusive option that everyone can enjoy.
8. Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners and sophisticated potlucks to bustling barbecues and serene picnics, this curry pasta salad fits seamlessly into any event, always garnering rave reviews.

Dive into the vibrant world of South African cuisine with this incredible Kerrie Noedelslaai and discover your new favorite make-ahead salad!

Essential Ingredients & Expert Substitution Tips for Kerrie Noedelslaai

Crafting the perfect South African Curry Noodle Salad begins with understanding the role of each ingredient and knowing how to adapt if needed. While the full list of ingredients with precise measurements is provided in the recipe card below, here’s a closer look at the key components and helpful substitution advice to ensure your salad is always a success. Opting for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible will undoubtedly elevate the overall flavor profile of this vibrant dish.

Pasta

The choice of pasta can significantly influence how well the dressing clings to the strands. We highly recommend using smaller, shaped pasta such as shells (conchiglioni), fusilli, or rotini. Their nooks and crannies are perfect for capturing every drop of that delicious curry sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor with each bite. When cooking your pasta, aim for an al dente texture – meaning it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to absorb liquid from the dressing as it chills overnight, softening further. Overcooking initially will result in a soggy salad.

Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum)

Red bell peppers are celebrated for their natural sweetness and vibrant color, which adds both visual appeal and a lovely flavor note to the salad. While red bell pepper is our top recommendation, feel free to experiment with other colors like yellow or orange bell peppers, which also offer sweetness and attractive hues. Green bell peppers, while usable, tend to have a more bitter, less sweet flavor. You can also opt for long, pointed red peppers if you prefer their milder taste and thinner flesh.

Red Onion

Red onion contributes a sharp, pungent bite and a beautiful purple tint to the salad. For the best texture and to avoid overwhelming the other flavors, ensure the red onion is very finely chopped. If red onion isn’t available or you prefer a milder taste, white onion can be used, though it’s slightly stronger. Green onions (scallions) or shallots also make excellent, milder substitutes, offering a more delicate onion flavor.

Vinegar

Vinegar is essential for providing the signature tanginess that balances the sweetness and spice in this dish. Traditionally, a white vinegar such as white wine vinegar is used, offering a crisp and clean acidity. However, you have flexibility here. Brown vinegar or red wine vinegar can also be used for a slightly different, perhaps deeper, acidic profile. If you decide to use balsamic vinegar, be aware that it is inherently sweeter. Should you choose balsamic, consider reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the dressing to maintain the desired sweet-tangy balance.

Oil

The oil in the dressing helps emulsify the ingredients, contributing to a smooth texture and carrying the flavors. Any neutral-flavored oil will work beautifully. Good options include sunflower oil, olive oil (light or extra virgin, depending on your preference for olive oil’s distinct taste), canola oil, or vegetable oil. Choose an oil that doesn’t overpower the delicate curry and chutney flavors.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar is a critical component for achieving the characteristic sweet profile of this South African curry salad, perfectly balancing the vinegar and curry. Granulated sugar, or caster sugar, are both ideal. The sauce is intentionally quite sweet, as its sweetness will mellow and dilute once mixed with the cooked pasta. For those looking to reduce sugar intake, a granulated sweetener like Canderel can be used as a substitute. Add it gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired level of sweetness. Remember that the balance of sweet, sour, and spicy is key to this salad’s appeal.

Curry Powder

The heart of Kerrie Noedelslaai’s flavor comes from mild curry powder. The quality and freshness of your curry powder will greatly impact the final taste, so choose a good brand. While a mild blend is traditional, you can easily adjust the intensity. For a bolder flavor, use a medium curry powder, or for a touch more heat, incorporate a pinch of hot curry powder or cayenne pepper. Always taste and adjust to your preference.

Chutney

Chutney adds a wonderfully fruity and savory-sweet depth that is indispensable to this recipe. Mrs Ball’s Peach Chutney is a quintessential South African choice and highly recommended for its authentic flavor profile. However, if it’s not available, other fruit chutneys like mango chutney can be used. Just ensure it has a similar sweet and tangy balance to achieve the desired taste.

Tabasco Sauce

Tabasco introduces a subtle, spicy kick that enlivens the entire salad. We typically add about 25-30 drops for a gentle warmth, creating a mild simmer rather than an intense burn. Spice preference is highly personal, so this ingredient is entirely customizable. Begin with a smaller amount and gradually add more, tasting after each addition, until the heat level is perfect for you. Other hot sauces can be used, but Tabasco’s vinegary punch complements the dressing particularly well.

Expert Tips for the Best South African Curry Noodle Salad

• Perfectly Cooked Pasta is Key: The foundation of a great pasta salad is perfectly cooked pasta. Ensure your pasta is cooked *just* to an al dente stage – meaning it should be firm but not hard, with a slight bite. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid from the curry dressing as it chills, softening further. Properly drained pasta is also vital to prevent a watery salad.
• Gradual Dressing Application: When it’s time to combine the pasta and the sauce, resist the urge to pour all the dressing in at once. Start by adding about two-thirds of the prepared sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly, allowing the pasta to begin absorbing the flavors. Then, assess the consistency and flavor. You’ll likely find that you need to add the remaining sauce, but this gradual approach allows you to control the dressing-to-pasta ratio, which can vary slightly depending on the pasta shape and brand.
• Chilling is Non-Negotiable: This salad truly transforms with time. The minimum chilling time is 6 hours, but for the most profound flavors, aim for an overnight stay in the refrigerator. This extended chill time allows the curry dressing to fully penetrate the pasta and vegetables, creating a more cohesive and delicious taste experience. Remember to stir it once or twice during chilling to ensure even distribution of the dressing.
• Season Your Pasta Water: Don’t forget to generously salt your pasta water! This is your only chance to season the pasta itself from the inside out. Well-salted pasta water results in flavorful pasta, which in turn contributes to a more delicious overall salad.
• Room Temperature Serving: While the salad must chill in the fridge, many find its flavors are most vibrant when served at room temperature. Take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to let it lose some of its chill.

Crafting Your Kerrie Noedelslaai: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed steps to create a mouth-watering South African Curry Noodle Salad that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Precision in each step ensures a delightful culinary experience.

Step 1: Begin by cooking your chosen pasta shape in generously salted water. Refer to the package directions for specific cooking times, but aim for a firm, al dente texture. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb the flavorful curry dressing once combined.

Step 2: Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, thoroughly drain it using a colander to remove all excess water. Immediately transfer the drained pasta to a large mixing bowl, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare your fresh vegetables by finely chopping the red bell pepper into small, uniform cubes. Similarly, finely chop the red onion. Fine chopping ensures an even distribution of flavor and a pleasant crunch in every bite.

Step 4: In a separate medium-sized bowl, prepare the rich curry dressing. Combine the tomato sauce, white vinegar, neutral-flavored oil, granulated sugar, mild curry powder, fruit chutney, a few dashes of Tabasco sauce, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and the sugar has dissolved, creating a smooth and aromatic sauce.

Step 5: Add the finely chopped red bell pepper and red onion to the large bowl containing the cooked pasta. Toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Step 6: Now, it’s time to dress the salad. Pour about two-thirds of the prepared curry sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Stir everything thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and add more sauce if needed, continuing to stir until all the pasta is perfectly drenched in the flavorful dressing. The exact amount of sauce required can vary slightly based on the pasta type and its expansion during cooking.

Step 7: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate the Kerrie Noedelslaai overnight, or for a minimum of 6 hours. This crucial chilling period allows the flavors to meld and deepen. For optimal results, give the salad a gentle stir once or twice during its refrigeration to redistribute the dressing evenly.

Step 8: When ready to serve, transfer the chilled curry noodle salad to a beautiful serving dish. For a fresh finish, scatter some freshly chopped parsley, basil, or coriander over the top, if desired. Serve cold directly from the fridge or at room temperature for enhanced flavor.

Storage Solutions & Optimal Freshness for Your Kerrie Noedelslaai

One of the many benefits of this delightful South African Curry Pasta Salad is its excellent shelf life, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping and entertaining. Once prepared, this salad will remain fresh and delicious when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. As noted, its flavors actually improve and deepen with each passing day, making it a fantastic dish to enjoy throughout the week.

For serving, you have flexibility: the salad is equally delicious served cold directly from the fridge, or you can allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, which often enhances its complex flavor profile. We do not recommend freezing this salad, as the pasta and vegetables can become mushy and the dressing may separate upon thawing, compromising the texture and taste.

Elevate Your Curry Noodle Salad: Creative Serving Suggestions

While Kerrie Noedelslaai is a star on its own, here are a few ideas to enhance its presentation and flavor:

• Garnishes for Freshness: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or coriander (cilantro) adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds can also provide a nutty crunch and a beautiful visual appeal.
• Extra Kick: For those who love a bit more warmth, a final dusting of freshly ground black pepper or a few extra drops of Tabasco (or your favorite hot sauce) can be added just before serving.
• Versatile Pairing: This salad is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a standalone light meal, a hearty side dish, or as a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats. It pairs exceptionally well with traditional South African braai fare like juicy steak, tender lamb chops, grilled chicken, and succulent ribs. The sweet and tangy notes of the salad beautifully complement the smoky richness of barbecue.
• Fruity Twist: For an interesting textural and flavor variation, consider stirring in tinned peaches (drained and diced) or finely chopped dried apricots into the salad. The added fruit provides an extra layer of sweetness and softens the curry’s intensity, creating an even more complex and enjoyable dish.

Hearty & Satisfying: More Filling Salad Recipes to Try

Looking for other substantial salads that go beyond the ordinary? Here are some of our favorites that are packed with flavor and sure to keep you full:

Cypriot Grain Salad

Caprese Salad with Hot Honey Dressing

Sushi Bowl (Deconstructed Sushi Salad)

Nectarine Salad with Rocket and Basil Dressing

Yuk Sung – Classic Chinese Lettuce Wraps

Panzanella Toscana Salad (Tuscan Bread Salad)

Curry Noodle Salad (Kerrie Noedelslaai)

This traditional South African curried pasta salad, known as Kerrie Noedelslaai, offers a carnival of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors and delightful textures. Tender pasta shells are coated in a vibrant dressing, perfectly balanced by the crisp crunch of red pepper and onion, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 500 gram uncooked, dry pasta – (e.g., fusilli, conchiglioni/pasta shells)
• 1 large red bell pepper – chopped into small cubes
• 1 red onion – roughly 180g, finely chopped
• 200 millilitre tomato sauce
• 100 millilitre white vinegar – (e.g., white wine vinegar)
• 100 millilitre oil – (e.g., olive, sunflower, or vegetable oil)
• 180 millilitre granulated sugar – or 160g
• 5 teaspoons mild curry powder – (25ml)
• 3 tablespoons fruit chutney – (45ml, e.g., Mrs Ball’s Peach Chutney)
• Tabasco – to taste
• Black pepper – to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in generously salted water according to the package directions. Do not overcook; the pasta should be al dente, as it will continue to absorb the curry sauce later.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly using a colander. Transfer the drained pasta to a large mixing bowl.
3. Finely chop the red bell pepper and the red onion into small, uniform pieces.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, white vinegar, oil, granulated sugar, mild curry powder, fruit chutney, Tabasco sauce, and black pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
5. Add the finely chopped red bell pepper and red onion to the pasta in the large bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Pour about two-thirds of the prepared sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Stir well. Assess the consistency and flavor, then add more sauce if needed, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. The amount of sauce may vary depending on the pasta type and its expansion.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours, to allow the flavors to develop fully. Stir once or twice during chilling to ensure even distribution of the dressing.
8. Transfer the chilled Curry Noodle Salad to a serving dish. Finish with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or coriander if desired, just before serving.

Notes

Top Tips:

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be *just* al dente and not too soft. Drain it well, as it will soak up more liquid when it sits in the dressing for a while.
• When adding the sauce to the pasta, start with about two-thirds of the dressing. Stir some sauce in and see if you need more before adding the rest. You’ll usually end up using all the sauce, but this method allows for adjustment based on pasta type and how much it expanded while cooking.

**Nutritional Data Disclaimer**

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party and we cannot guarantee its absolute accuracy. We strive to offer the most precise information possible, but we do not take responsibility for any potential errors. Furthermore, the nutritional value of this recipe may vary depending on the exact brands and products you choose to use. For personalized advice on your dietary needs, we recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Journey Through South Africa: More Authentic Recipes

Delve deeper into the rich culinary heritage of South Africa with these cherished traditional recipes:

Pikkie’s Melkkos (Milk Food)

Pampoenkoekies with Caramel Sauce (Pumpkin Fritters)

Vetkoek (Fried Dough Bread)

Bunny Chow (Hollowed Bread Loaf with Curry)

Curry Noodle Salad (Kerrie Noedelslaai) – *The recipe you’re currently enjoying!*

Bobotie (Spiced Minced Meat Bake)

Hertzoggies (Jam and Coconut Tartlets)

Bar-One Sauce (Chocolate Caramel Sauce)

Yellow Rice for Bobotie

Peppermint Crisp Tart

Rock Shandy (Refreshing Drink)

Trinchado (Portuguese-Inspired Beef Stew)

Prego Steak Rolls (Garlic Steak Sandwiches)

Pannekoek (Traditional South African Pancakes)

Expand Your Palate: Other Delicious Curry Recipes

If you’re a fan of rich and aromatic flavors, explore these other fantastic curry creations from around the world:

Chicken Dopiaza Curry

Nepalese Chicken Curry – Our most popular curry recipe, a must-try!

Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Pasanda Curry

Creamy Butter Bean Curry with Coconut Milk

Aromatic Beef Curry with Coconut Milk

Easy South African Bobotie

Quick Chicken Karahi

Chicken Handi Curry

For more insights into the world of flavor, read all about Spices here!