This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a perfect mix of soft pasta, fresh veggies, and a tasty creamy dressing. It’s light, colorful, and great for any meal or picnic!
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of pasta salad? I love making this when I want something quick and tasty. Plus, it’s wonderful for leftovers—if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used tri-color rotini because it adds a nice pop of color. If you have other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, feel free to use those instead! Just remember to cook until al dente, so it holds up well in the salad.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my top choice for its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using feta or cheddar, which can complement the other ingredients nicely.
Olives: Black olives add a nice briny flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using green olives instead, or leave them out entirely if you’re not a fan.
Meat: I enjoy adding pepperoni for a bit of spice. For a healthier option, you can substitute it with diced grilled chicken or turkey. Vegetarian? Just skip the meat altogether!
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley really brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can work—just use a smaller amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth and Tasty?
The dressing is the heart of this pasta salad! To make it creamy and smooth, start by mixing the mayonnaise and sour cream in a bowl until combined.
- Add the vinegar or lemon juice for a little tang. This helps balance the richness.
- Mix in the sugar; it sounds odd, but it cuts the acidity and enhances the flavors!
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure to sample it! Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the pasta and mix gently. This preserves the pasta’s shape while ensuring everything is coated evenly. Chill it for at least an hour; it allows those flavors to come together beautifully!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz tri-color rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami strips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time to prepare everything. After mixing all the ingredients, you’ll need to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to let the flavors mingle before serving.
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 done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This helps to cool the pasta and stop it from cooking further. Let it drain well for a minute or two.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cubed mozzarella cheese, sliced black olives, diced red bell pepper, pepperoni or salami strips, chopped fresh basil, and parsley. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients mix well together.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This dressing brings all the flavors together!
4. Mix it All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all the pasta and veggies are thoroughly coated with the dressing. Take your time to make sure everything is well mixed.
5. Taste and Season:
Take a taste of your pasta salad! If you think it needs a little more salt or pepper, feel free to add more according to your preference.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad another gentle toss. You can garnish with some extra chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for an added touch of flavor and color. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!
This creamy pasta salad is not only colorful and delicious but also a fantastic dish for potlucks, picnics, or any meal where you want a refreshing side. Enjoy! 😊
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the tri-color rotini with gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken after sitting.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor or Nutrition?
Feel free to add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or spinach! You can also toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein, making it even more satisfying.
