This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a dish you’ll love! It’s packed with delicious pasta, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. Yum!
Perfect for picnics or potlucks, I can’t resist sneaking a forkful before serving. Who can blame me? It’s just too good! 🍝
What I appreciate most is how quick it is to make. Just boil the pasta, mix in everything, and you’re ready to enjoy this tasty treat in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color Rotini Pasta: This pasta adds a fun twist with its colorful spirals! If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work just as well.
Mayonnaise: This is a key ingredient for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise alternative. They maintain the creamy texture with fewer calories.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess to the dressing. You can swap it out with plain yogurt if you’re in a pinch. It gives a similar creaminess and taste!
Vegetables: Red bell pepper and cucumber are fantastic for crunch. Feel free to switch them for whatever you have on hand, like cherry tomatoes or peas. Fresh veggies really brighten up the dish.
Cheese: Cubed mozzarella gives a delightful chew. Consider using feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Shredded cheese can also mix in easily!
How Do You Make a Creamy Dressing That Stays Mixed?
Mixing a creamy dressing properly is crucial for this pasta salad. Here’s how you can get it just right:
- Start by whisking the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth before adding other ingredients. This creates a good base.
- Add in vinegar and sugar gradually, mixing well between each addition. This ensures everything combines evenly.
- Try to incorporate the dry spices, like garlic powder and onion powder, slowly. Use the whisk to break any clumps before mixing.
- After layering in your cooked pasta and veggies, gently fold everything together with a spatula. This keeps the ingredients mixed without breaking anything up.
This way, your creamy dressing won’t separate, and it’ll coat all your pasta and vegetables perfectly!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to let it drain completely.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Tasting before adding more salt and pepper could help you get it just right!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add your cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Then, mix in the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, sliced black olives, chopped basil, and cubed mozzarella cheese. If you like a bit of meat, sprinkle in the sliced pepperoni or salami as well. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets all the delicious flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give the pasta salad a gentle stir. Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled and enjoy this colorful, creamy pasta salad at your next gathering!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini is fun for color and texture, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly while chilling.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize! You can add diced carrots, peas, cherry tomatoes, or even chopped spinach. For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise or sour cream. You can also increase the quantity of vegetables for more fiber and nutrients, making it an even healthier option!
