Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta salad is simple, versatile, and packed with flavor. The creamy dressing coats every bite, while the vegetables add crunch and freshness. It’s easy to customize and tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for preparing in advance.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta (rotini or elbow)
mayonnaise
sour cream
mustard
apple cider vinegar
salt
black pepper
celery
red onion
bell peppers
peas
optional ham, chicken, or cheese cubes
Directions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
Stir in chopped celery, red onion, bell peppers, and peas.
Mix everything until evenly coated with the dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
Add shredded chicken or diced ham for extra protein.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
Add chopped pickles or relish for extra tang.
Mix in cheese cubes for added richness.
Use different vegetables like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving and add a little extra dressing if it seems dry. This dish is best served cold and does not need reheating.
FAQs
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead and chilled.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini or elbow works best.
Can I use only mayonnaise?
Yes, but adding sour cream improves flavor and texture.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Add a bit more dressing before serving if needed.
Can I make it healthier?
Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Do I need to rinse the pasta?
Yes, rinsing cools it down and stops cooking.
Can I add protein?
Yes, chicken, ham, or cheese are great additions.
Why is my pasta salad bland?
It may need more salt, vinegar, or mustard.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
No, freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing.
How long should it chill?
At least 1 hour, but longer is even better.
Conclusion
Creamy pasta salad is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s a reliable favorite that can be customized to suit your taste.
PrintCreamy Pasta Salad
A cool and refreshing creamy pasta salad made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, rich dressing. Perfect for picnics, gatherings, or make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini or elbow pasta
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup peas
- Optional: diced ham, cooked chicken, or cheese cubes
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cooled pasta to the dressing.
- Stir in celery, red onion, bell peppers, and peas.
- Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Add shredded chicken or diced ham for extra protein.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Mix in chopped pickles or relish for extra tang.
- Add cheese cubes for a richer taste.
- Stir in extra dressing before serving if it seems dry.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
