This easy creamy pasta salad is a fun dish packed with colorful veggies and a smooth dressing. It makes for a perfect side at any picnic or get-together!
I love how creamy it is and how quickly it comes together. Just boil the pasta, mix in your favorite ingredients, and chill! So easy that even I can make it without any fuss. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: The tri-color rotini adds color and a fun twist. You can swap it for any pasta shape you like—bowties or penne work great too!
Mayonnaise: This gives the salad its creamy base. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a light mayo. They’ll still give you that creamy texture!
Sour Cream: I love the tanginess it brings! If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based sour cream or omit it for a lighter salad.
Vegetables: Feel free to add or replace veggies based on your taste. Cherry tomatoes, peas, or carrots can also bring a nice crunch and color!
Meat: Pepperoni or salami adds great flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or skip the meat entirely.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Is Creamy and Well-Mixed?
The key to a creamy pasta salad lies in the mixing and chilling. To ensure everything is evenly coated:
- After cooking and cooling your pasta, make sure it’s well-drained to prevent excess water.
- When mixing the dressing, whisk until smooth to avoid clumps. This will coat your pasta and ingredients better.
- Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps flavors meld and makes the texture creamy.
- Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing; it can settle as it sits.
Enjoy every bite of your delicious and creamy pasta salad! It’s perfect for BBQs or as a meal prep option.
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup chopped pepperoni or salami slices
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This creamy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes all together. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Make sure to drain it well, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and creamy—this dressing will make your pasta salad super tasty!
3. Mix in the Veggies and Meat:
Now it’s time to add some color! Toss in the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, sliced black olives, chopped pepperoni or salami, cubed mozzarella, and chopped basil into the pasta. These ingredients not only add flavor but also make the dish vibrant and appealing.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour your creamy dressing over the pasta and veggies. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly. Get in there and mix it well! 😄
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a quick taste of your pasta salad. If you think it needs a little more flavor, adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper.
6. Chill Out:
Cover your pasta salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets the flavors blend beautifully. You can make it even the day before if you want a hassle-free meal!
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, give the salad one last gentle stir. If you’d like, garnish it with extra fresh basil and some chopped parsley for a fresh and fragrant finish. Serve and enjoy your creamy, delicious pasta salad! 🥗
Yum! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber, and gluten-free pasta works well too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary based on the type of pasta you choose!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a little stir before serving, as the dressing may settle over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Of course! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, peas, or carrots. You can also swap in grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein!
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make this pasta salad a day in advance. Just prepare the salad, cover it, and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as it sits. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving!
