Name: Creamy Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp white vinegar; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup diced celery; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/2 cup diced cucumber; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links

Craving a side dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Creamy Pasta Salad recipe is your ticket to a quick, easy, and totally satisfying meal. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy dressing, studded with crisp veggies – perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a simple weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta Salad

This isn’t just another pasta salad recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Ready in Under 30 Minutes: From prep to chill, it’s a breeze.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The creamy dressing is tangy, sweet, and savory.
Customizable: Easily adapt to your favorite veggies and dietary needs.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Versatile: Serve as a side or a light main course.
Deliciously Refreshing: The cool, crisp veggies complement the creamy pasta perfectly.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering creamy pasta salad. Don’t worry, most of these ingredients are pantry staples!

8 oz (225g) rotini pasta: The twirls capture all that delicious dressing.
1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand for the perfect creaminess.
1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream: Adds a delightful tang to the dressing.
2 tbsp (30ml) white vinegar: Balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle kick.
1 tsp (4g) sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the vegetables.
1/2 tsp (3g) salt: Season to perfection.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
1 cup (115g) diced celery: For a refreshing crunch.
1/2 cup (50g) diced red onion: Adds a zesty bite.
1 cup (150g) halved cherry tomatoes: Bursting with juicy sweetness.
1/2 cup (75g) sliced black olives: Adds a salty, briny flavor.
1/2 cup (60g) diced cucumber: Cooling and refreshing.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dill: Complements the other flavors beautifully.

Selection Tip: Opt for fresh, vibrant vegetables for the best flavor and texture. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used, but use about 1 teaspoon of dried herb for every tablespoon of fresh.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon Dressing – A Mediterranean twist on a classic!

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy pasta salad:

Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
Large mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.

Creamy pasta salad with vegetables in a bowl.

Whisk: For creating a smooth and creamy dressing.

Cutting board: To chop the vegetables.

Chef’s knife: For precise dicing.

Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Optional: A vegetable chopper can save time and effort when preparing the vegetables.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this creamy pasta salad:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a party, or halve the recipe for a smaller gathering!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps for a perfect creamy pasta salad every time!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta cooks, in a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Cool the Pasta

Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down completely. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and helps the dressing adhere better.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled pasta to the dressing bowl along with the diced celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumber, parsley, and dill. Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly. Before serving, give the pasta salad a good stir and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled as a side dish or main course.

CHECK OUT: Easy German Potato Salad – Another classic side dish perfect for any occasion!

Tips for Success

Want to elevate your creamy pasta salad game? Here are a few expert tips:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for a great texture.
Chill thoroughly: This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become more flavorful.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the dressing to your liking.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
Don’t add dressing too early: If making ahead, wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.

Variations & Substitutions

This creamy pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Cheese Please: Toss in some cubed cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Veggie Variety: Swap out or add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli.
Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Creamy Pasta Salad

This creamy pasta salad pairs perfectly with:

Grilled chicken or fish
BBQ ribs or burgers
Sandwiches or wraps
A simple green salad

It’s also a fantastic addition to any picnic or potluck spread. A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Health Benefits of Creamy Pasta Salad

While this salad is undeniably delicious, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the pasta offers carbohydrates for energy. The celery gives you vitamin K and the tomatoes give you vitamin C.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. Freezing is not recommended as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and become watery upon thawing.

If the salad seems a little dry after being refrigerated, add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or sour cream to restore its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pasta salad a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze creamy pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and become watery upon thawing.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Rotini, penne, farfalle, or any other short pasta shape works well in this salad. Choose your favorite!

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes, feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or proteins. Get creative and make it your own!

How long does creamy pasta salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, creamy pasta salad will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 320
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 10g

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more easy and flavorful recipes? Check out these other gems:

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks: A delicious and savory snack.

Pasta salad with creamy dressing, ready to serve.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake: A hearty and comforting breakfast.
Deviled Eggs: A classic appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pasta Salad is fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

Creamy Pasta Salad