Description
This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing side dish made with tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a rich, tangy dressing. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep, this salad is easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or macaroni)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances flavors, optional)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2. Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- 3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, cheese, olives, and bacon.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- 4. Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, then serve!
Notes
- Make it Healthier: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo/sour cream.
- Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, ham, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fat: ~15g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Nutrition
- Calories: ~300
- Sodium: ~400mg
- Fat: ~15g
- Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, ham, or hard-boiled eggs.