This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of pasta, fresh veggies, and a delicious dressing. It’s cool, colorful, and absolutely comforting, making it a hit at any gathering!
Throwing this salad together is a breeze! I love to snack on it all day, and it’s great as a side or a light meal. It practically begs for a sunny picnic! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This adds a fun twist with its vibrant colors. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using chickpea or lentil pasta instead.
Mayonnaise: It gives creaminess to the salad. For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a healthier and dairy-free alternative.
Sour cream: This complements the mayo with tanginess. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using a plant-based sour cream or creamy cashew alternative.
Red bell pepper: Fresh and sweet, it adds crunch. Any color bell pepper works, or you can substitute with diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for variety.
Pepperoni/salami: These add a meaty flavor. You can replace them with diced cooked chicken or omit them for a vegetarian version. Choose plant-based slices for a vegan option!
Fresh basil: This herb lifts the flavor of the salad. If you can’t find fresh basil, use dried basil or replace it with parsley for a different taste profile.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Doesn’t Get Mushy?
To keep your pasta perfectly cooked and avoid mushiness, follow these simple steps:
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente – this means it should still have a slight bite to it.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta immediately and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta, making it ready for the salad.
- Give it a quick toss with a splash of olive oil if you want to prevent it from sticking together.
By following these tips, your pasta salad will be delightful and not soggy! Enjoy making this dish for your next gathering!
How to Make Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup diced pepperoni or salami slices
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of chill time in the fridge to let the flavors blend together. It’s quick to put together but delivers on taste, making it a perfect choice for a gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm, not mushy). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Keep mixing until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This will be the heart of your salad!
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to the dressing mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Next, fold in the diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, pepperoni or salami slices, and the cubed mozzarella cheese. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for a colorful and tasty salad.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a pop of flavor. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow all those delicious flavors to mingle!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the pasta salad a gentle stir, and if you’d like, garnish with extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Now it’s ready to be devoured!
This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is creamy, savory, and colorful—the ideal dish for potlucks, family gatherings, or any weeknight meal! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and texture. If you prefer gluten-free pasta, go for brown rice or chickpea pasta, which work just as well and will still give you that delicious creamy salad.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad 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 or separate while stored.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! This pasta salad is very versatile. Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or carrots. You can also swap out the protein for cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
How Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
To make this pasta salad dairy-free, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan versions. There are many great plant-based mayonnaise and yogurt options available that will maintain the creaminess of the salad.
