This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish made with colorful veggies and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and gatherings, or just for a quick meal at home!
You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, and I love to sneak in extra cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time. Easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use rotini or elbow macaroni because they hold onto the dressing well. You could switch it up with whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even spiralized veggies for a lighter twist!
Mayonnaise: This is key for creaminess, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or any vegan mayonnaise if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.
Sour Cream: Adds a nice tang. If you want a lighter version, use plain yogurt instead. It tastes great and cuts some calories too!
Veggies: I love cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, but you can include other favorites like peas or carrots. Just ensure they’re bite-sized for easy eating!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to use mozzarella, feta, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Each will bring its unique flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Pasta for Salad?
Cooking the pasta just right is crucial. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Start with plenty of salted boiling water—a key step for flavor!
- Cook according to package instructions but check for al dente, which means it’s still firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for your salad.
- Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery salad!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy creamy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s ready, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it well afterward.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth.
3. Combine the Pasta and Dressing:
Then, take your cooled pasta and add it to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly, making sure everything is mixed well.
4. Add the Veggies and Cheese:
Now it’s time to fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, bell pepper, and the optional parsley or dill. Gently mix everything together, keeping those lovely veggies intact!
5. Chill and Let the Flavors Meld:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend together beautifully. Don’t skip this step—it makes a big difference!
6. Taste and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a little more salt or pepper if you like. Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious creamy pasta salad!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini and elbow macaroni are great choices, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it might thicken up a bit in the fridge.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. There are many delicious options available that will maintain the creamy texture of the salad!
What Other Vegetables Work Well in This Salad?
You can add a variety of veggies based on your preference! Bell peppers, olives, peas, and shredded carrots are all great additions. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for easy mixing and eating.