Creamy Pasta Salad

This Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a luscious, tangy dressing.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a versatile side dish. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick side for dinner or a make-ahead dish for gatherings, this pasta salad is always a hit. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins to make it uniquely yours!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large serving bowl

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work great)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. 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.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, carrots, bell peppers, and parsley.
4. Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes (plus 1-hour chilling time)

Nutrition (Per Serving, Makes 6 Servings)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

Expert Tips

• Rinse the Pasta: Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking stops the cooking process and prevents it from sticking together.
• Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or parties.
• Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add cooked chicken, diced ham, or boiled eggs.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like bowties, fusilli, or elbows works well in this recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or use additional mayonnaise.

What other veggies can I add?
Peas, corn, or broccoli florets are great additions. Feel free to customize based on your preferences.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the mayonnaise for a healthier option.

Storing & Reheating

• To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Substitutions & Variations

• Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo and skip the sour cream or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh dill or basil for extra flavor.

Creamy Pasta Salad

This Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a luscious, tangy dressing.

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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• #### For the Salad:
• - 12 oz 340g pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work great)
• - 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• - 1 cup cucumber diced
• - 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
• - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• - 1/2 cup diced bell peppers any color
• - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• #### For the Creamy Dressing:
• - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• - 1/4 cup sour cream
• - 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• - 1 tbsp honey
• - 1 tsp garlic powder
• - 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
• - 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• Large pot
• - Strainer
• - Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• - Large serving bowl

Method

 

1. **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.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, carrots, bell peppers, and parsley.
4. **Toss with Dressing:** Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.