This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish! It’s packed with colorful veggies, creamy dressing, and tender pasta. Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch!
I love making this salad because it takes just a few minutes to whip up. Plus, it tastes even better the next day—who can resist a second serving? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color Rotini Pasta: This pasta adds a fun color to the dish. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like penne or bow-tie would also work well!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy base. For a lighter option, you could substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. It adds protein and a nice tang!
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a nice flavor kick. If you prefer something milder, regular yellow mustard is fine too.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness, but feel free to swap it with celery or cucumber for a different vibe. You can even add cherry tomatoes for extra color!
Salami: The salami brings great flavor. You could replace it with diced ham, turkey, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Perfectly Creamy?
To ensure a creamy texture in your pasta salad, follow these tips:
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Cool the pasta thoroughly under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps it hold its shape.
- Mix the dressing ingredients well before adding the pasta; this helps it coat evenly.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.
With these pointers, your pasta salad will be a hit, whether for a special occasion or a simple meal! Enjoy every bite!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced salami
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can have a delicious dish ready in just over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain it well and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent it from getting mushy. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
While the pasta is cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. In the bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well blended. This will be your creamy dressing that makes the salad delicious!
3. Mix in the Pasta:
Once the pasta is cool, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture.
4. Add the Veggies and Salami:
Next, fold in the diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, cubed mozzarella cheese, and sliced salami to the salad. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break the pasta or cheese.
5. Stir in Fresh Herbs:
Now it’s time to add color and freshness! Sprinkle the chopped basil and parsley over the salad, and gently stir them in to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, give the salad a good stir to mix everything up again. You can add a sprinkle of extra black pepper or fresh herbs on top for a pop of flavor if you’d like!
Enjoy your creamy, colorful pasta salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a tasty lunch! It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs about Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini adds a fun visual element, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the salami and add more veggies like cherry tomatoes, broccoli, or cucumber. You can also increase the cheese for a protein boost!
Is There a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It adds creaminess and a nice tangy flavor!
