This easy creamy pasta salad is a perfect blend of pasta and fresh veggies, all mixed together in a tasty dressing. It’s great for picnics and quick lunches!
Honestly, I could eat this all week! It’s so easy to whip up, and I love sneaking in extra veggies. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍝🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color Rotini Pasta: This pasta is fun and adds color to your salad. If you can’t find it, feel free to use regular rotini, fusilli, or even penne.
Mayonnaise: It forms the base of the dressing. If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both give a nice creaminess!
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy taste. You can substitute with plain yogurt or more mayo if necessary, but it will slightly change the flavor.
Meat Choices: I love using diced ham or salami, but you can skip the meat for a vegetarian version. Chickpeas or tofu cubes can be great protein alternatives as well.
Veggies: Red bell peppers bring color and crunch. Other options include cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even peas for added flavor. Use what you enjoy!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Pasta Salad?
To really make the flavors pop in your creamy pasta salad, here are a few great tips:
- Season as you go: Add salt and pepper to the pasta water and adjust the seasoning in the dressing too.
- Chill Time: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour! It allows the flavors to mingle and enhances the taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a burst of flavor. Dried herbs can work, but fresh can elevate your dish.
With these tips in hand, your creamy pasta salad will be a hit! Enjoy making it your own with favorite flavors and textures.
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or salami slices (optional)
- 1 cup diced mozzarella cheese or mozzarella balls
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time. Plus, you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to let the flavors mix together beautifully. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drain well so there’s no excess water in your salad.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Now, add the cooled pasta to the dressing in the bowl. Gently stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy dressing. **Tip:** Be careful not to break the pasta while mixing!
4. Add the Must-Try Ingredients:
Fold in your choice of diced ham or salami, mozzarella cheese, diced red bell pepper, black olives, and chopped green onions. Mix gently to distribute these tasty add-ins evenly throughout the salad.
5. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top, along with a bit more freshly cracked black pepper if you’d like. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This is the secret to letting all those wonderful flavors meld together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is ready to serve! Dish it out as a side for a picnic, a barbecue, or enjoy it as a light meal any time. Enjoy every colorful bite!
Now you have a delicious and vibrant creamy pasta salad that’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering or meal. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini adds a fun look, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Bowtie, penne, or fusilli would all work well in this recipe.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make the pasta salad vegetarian, simply omit the diced ham or salami. You can replace it with chickpeas or additional veggies like cucumbers or carrots for added texture and protein.
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so you can stir in a bit of extra mayo or sour cream to refresh it before serving again.
