This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a tasty and colorful dish! With noodles, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for lunch or a picnic. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? I love adding extra cheese for fun! It’s quick to make, so I whip it up whenever I’m craving a cool pasta treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This pasta adds a fun pop of color and holds the creamy dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, you can use penne or shell pasta. Both work great!
Mayonnaise: The base of the creaminess comes from mayonnaise. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a nice substitute, giving protein and tanginess.
Sour cream: Adds a nice tang, but you can replace it with plain yogurt if you’d like a healthier twist!
Bell peppers: Red bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Feel free to swap them for any color of bell pepper or even cherry tomatoes for a different look and taste!
Fresh herbs: Basil or parsley enhance the flavor. I tend to use fresh basil when it’s in season; it really brightens the dish. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs work too—just use less.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Stays Creamy and Tasty?
Keeping your pasta salad creamy and flavorful comes down to a few simple techniques:
- Make sure to cool the pasta completely after cooking. Rinsing it in cold water is key!
- Mix your dressing ingredients well before adding them to the pasta, ensuring even distribution of flavor.
- Let the pasta salad chill for at least an hour in the fridge. This step is important as it gives the ingredients time to blend and develop a richer taste.
- Before serving, taste your salad. A small pinch of salt or a sprinkle of pepper can make a big difference!
Enjoy these little tips for an even more delightful pasta salad experience! Each element contributes to that luscious texture and taste.
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced cucumber (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni or sliced salami
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil or parsley
Time Needed to Prepare:
This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prep and then at least 1 hour in the fridge to chill. So, total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for letting those flavors blend while you relax or get ready for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. Make sure to drain well to avoid excess water in your salad!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This creamy dressing is what makes the pasta salad so tasty!
3. Combine Pasta with the Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Toss it all together gently until every noodle is coated with that delicious dressing. It should look wonderful and colorful!
4. Add the Veggies and Meats:
Now, it’s time to fold in the diced red bell pepper, cucumber (if you’re using it), sliced black olives, cubed mozzarella cheese, and chopped pepperoni or salami. Mix gently so everything is evenly distributed, but be careful not to break up the pasta.
5. Top it Off:
Sprinkle in the finely chopped fresh basil or parsley and give it one last gentle stir. Taste your salad and adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed. It should be bursting with flavor!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This will help all the flavors meld together and make it extra refreshing. When you’re ready to serve, scoop it into bowls or onto plates and enjoy cold. Optionally, sprinkle a bit of freshly ground black pepper on top for an extra kick!
Enjoy your creamy, colorful, and flavorful pasta salad, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a favorite for quick lunches or potlucks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will give a slightly nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free pasta can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions. Just ensure you follow the package instructions for cooking time, as they may vary.
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a cashew cream. Use a dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream, and replace the cheese with vegan cheese or omit it altogether. You can also add more veggies to make up for the difference!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! This pasta salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will actually improve as it sits, but it’s best to add any fresh herbs just before serving for maximum flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3 days. When ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature for a bit!
