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Creamy Pasta Salad

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans

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.