This creamy pasta salad is a delightful blend of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a luscious, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a simple side dish for weeknight dinners. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
- A versatile recipe that allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking.
- Perfect for meal prepping and stays delicious for days.
- A crowd-pleaser at gatherings or as a family dinner side.
- The creamy dressing adds a luxurious touch to this refreshing dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Elbow or spiral pasta
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice
- Honey
- Salt and pepper
- Celery
- Red onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill)
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Chop the celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and dressing in a large mixing bowl. Toss until well coated.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned tuna for a complete meal.
- Cheese lovers: Sprinkle in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or crumbled feta.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
- Veggie boost: Include blanched broccoli, peas, or roasted bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: This pasta salad is best served cold. If you prefer it slightly warm, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like elbow, penne, or rotini is ideal as they hold the dressing well.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version.
4. How can I prevent the salad from drying out?
Ensure the pasta is well-coated with dressing, and if storing overnight, reserve some dressing to mix in before serving.
5. What herbs pair well with this recipe?
Parsley, dill, chives, or basil all complement the flavors beautifully.
6. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought creamy dressing for convenience.
7. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as written, it is vegetarian-friendly.
8. Can I freeze pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the dressing and vegetables can change.
9. What side dishes pair well with creamy pasta salad?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or fresh fruit.
10. How do I add more flavor to the salad?
Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, or a splash of vinegar for extra zest.
Conclusion
Creamy pasta salad is a timeless classic that combines comfort and freshness in every bite. With its simple ingredients and endless customization options, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a quick weekday lunchโeither way, it’s sure to please!
Print
Creamy Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy pasta salad is the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy, creamy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini or elbow pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and shred the carrots.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dill until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, and cheese or olives if using. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a heartier salad.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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