This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish that everyone loves! Made with pasta, fresh veggies, and a smooth dressing, it’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.
I enjoy whipping this up in no time. You can even add your favorite proteins like chicken or tuna! It’s super flexible and a great way to use up leftovers. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This is a fun pasta shape that adds color to your salad. If you can’t find it, any pasta shape like elbow macaroni or fusilli will work just fine.
Mayonnaise: It gives the dressing its creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute.
Sour cream: This adds a nice tang. You can replace it with plain yogurt or omit it if you prefer a lighter dressing.
Red bell pepper: Sweet and crunchy, but feel free to swap in yellow or orange bell peppers. Or, you could use shredded carrots for added sweetness!
Black olives: They add a salty, briny flavor. If olives aren’t your thing, diced pickles or even artichokes can offer a nice twist.
Pepperoni or salami: Adds a bit of meatiness to the salad. If you need a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or leave it out altogether.
How Do You Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating the dressing is a crucial step in this pasta salad. It’s what ties all the ingredients together and makes the dish flavorful.
- Start by whisking the mayonnaise and sour cream in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add vinegar or lemon juice for a bit of tang. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Mix in sugar and garlic powder. The sugar balances out the acidity while garlic powder adds depth. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Once your dressing is ready, combine it with the cooled pasta and mix well. This allows the pasta to soak up the flavors, making every bite delicious!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced cucumber (peeled and seeded if desired)
- 1 cup chopped black olives
- 1 cup diced mozzarella cheese or cubed cheese of choice
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami strips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or Italian parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pasta salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a little extra time, around 1 hour, to chill it in the fridge after making, which helps the flavors blend beautifully. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the tri-color rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Make sure to drain it well so it doesn’t get soggy.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until it’s all well combined and smooth. This creamy dressing is the base of your pasta salad.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly. Then, fold in the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, black olives, mozzarella cheese, and sliced pepperoni or salami, mixing until all the ingredients are well combined.
4. Season and Garnish:
Taste the pasta salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if you want a little more tang. Finally, sprinkle the chopped basil or parsley over the top for that fresh finish.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour. This will let the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle stir, serve it chilled, and enjoy your delicious creation!
This creamy pasta salad is colorful, flavorful, and perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini adds fun color and texture, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, elbow macaroni, or even bow ties. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to your chosen pasta.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify, making it even tastier! However, it’s best to eat it within this timeframe for optimal freshness.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it will be ready to impress your guests!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a creamy texture without all the calories. You can also try a vinaigrette for a tangier flavor, but keep in mind it will change the overall creaminess of the salad.
