Creamy Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Creamy Pasta Salad because it’s simple, versatile, and full of flavor. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep. The combination of crunchy veggies, tender pasta, and creamy dressing creates the perfect balance of textures. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—you can add your favorite proteins, herbs, or mix-ins to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as rotini, elbow, or penne)
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• Sugar (optional, to balance flavor)
• Salt and black pepper
• Celery, diced
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional add-ins: shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, peas, or bacon bits

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper to create the creamy dressing.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in celery, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and parsley.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste and mix in any optional add-ins.
6. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Healthier version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
• Protein boost: Add diced chicken, tuna, or boiled eggs.
• Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and skip the dairy for a plant-based option.
• Cheesy twist: Mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta.
• Italian style: Replace mayo with Italian dressing and add olives, salami, and mozzarella pearls.

Storage/Reheating

Store Creamy Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly in the fridge. If it seems dry, add a small splash of milk or extra mayo to refresh it. This salad is best served cold and should not be frozen, as the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or macaroni hold the dressing well and stay firm after chilling.

3. Can I use only mayonnaise for the dressing?

Yes, but adding sour cream or Greek yogurt gives a lighter, tangier flavor.

4. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and toss it with a bit of dressing while it cools.

5. Can I add meat to this salad?

Absolutely—chicken, ham, or bacon all make great additions.

6. How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt or simply stick with mayonnaise.

8. How do I make it more colorful?

Add colorful vegetables like carrots, cherry tomatoes, corn, or bell peppers.

9. Can I use leftover pasta?

Yes, as long as it’s plain and not heavily sauced—just rinse before using.

10. How can I make it extra creamy?

Add a little more mayo or yogurt before serving, or drizzle in a splash of milk to loosen the dressing.

Conclusion

Creamy Pasta Salad is a timeless favorite that combines comfort and freshness in every bite. With its smooth dressing, crisp vegetables, and tender pasta, it’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, store, and customize, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Creamy Pasta Salad

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Creamy Pasta Salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing side dish made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight meals, it’s cool, refreshing, and endlessly customizable.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixed
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (rotini, elbow, or penne)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
4. Stir in celery, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding any optional mix-ins if desired.
6. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors blend.

Notes

• Rinse the pasta well after cooking to keep it from clumping.
• Chilling enhances flavor—prepare a few hours ahead for the best taste.
• If the salad thickens in the fridge, stir in a splash of milk or extra mayo before serving.
• Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins like chicken or tuna.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg