This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for lunch or a picnic! With tasty pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s a colorful delight for your plate.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Toss everything together, and you have a dish that brightens any meal. Plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser—everyone goes for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend tri-color rotini for its fun colors and shape, which catch the dressing nicely. If you’re out of rotini, any pasta shape like penne or fusilli will work well.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and sweetness. Feel free to swap in other veggies like cucumber or cherry tomatoes for a different flavor.
Salami or Pepperoni: Both give a nice savory element. You can replace these with grilled chicken, tofu, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian option.
Cheese: Mozzarella chunks or pearls are so creamy! Feta is a great alternative if you want a tangy twist.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work, but adjust the amounts down since dried is stronger.
How Do You Make a Creamy Dressing That Stays Fresh?
Making the creamy dressing is key to ensuring your pasta salad is extra delicious. Combine mayonnaise and sour cream for a smooth base. Here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of sour cream until well blended.
- Add 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning and 1 tsp of garlic powder for flavor. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste!
- Mix thoroughly and taste. Adjust seasoning as necessary to get the flavor you love.
Letting your salad chill in the fridge helps the flavors meld beautifully, so be sure to give it time before serving!
How to Make Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup diced mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella pearls)
- 1/2 cup sliced salami or pepperoni
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge before serving. So, you can quickly whip it up, let it sit, and enjoy tasty flavors at your next meal or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Drain thoroughly so there’s no excess water.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced mozzarella, sliced salami, chopped basil, and parsley. This colorful mix will look delightful!
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper, creating a smooth and creamy dressing.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Now it’s time to pour the dressing over your pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated evenly with the creamy dressing. Taste it to check if it needs any adjustments, like more salt or pepper.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your pasta salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. When ready to serve, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top for an extra touch.
Enjoy your vibrant and creamy pasta salad, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal with family!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrition, while gluten-free pasta is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Just cook it according to the package directions for best results.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt. You can also omit the salami and cheese or use vegan versions for those ingredients.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If the pasta salad seems dry upon reheating, simply add a spoonful of mayo or a splash of olive oil to refresh the creaminess!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the rest of the ingredients for added flavor and nutrition.
