This easy creamy pasta salad is a tasty dish that everyone will love! Made with pasta, veggies, and a yummy creamy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics or a quick lunch.
The best part? You can mix in your favorite veggies or proteins! I often throw in some leftover chicken for an extra kick. Everyone will want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This pasta not only looks great, but its twists hold the dressing well. If you can’t find rotini, any other pasta shape, like fusilli or penne, will work just fine!
Mayonnaise: This is a key ingredient for creaminess. You can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or use a dairy-free mayo if you’re avoiding dairy.
Sour cream: It adds a tangy flavor. If you want it lighter, use low-fat sour cream or plain yogurt. Just remember that the texture will change slightly.
Salami: For a different flavor, try diced ham, cooked bacon, or even grilled chicken. You can leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option.
Black olives: They add a nice briny taste. If you aren’t a fan, feel free to replace them with chopped pickles or capers for a different bite.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta for Salad?
The pasta is the heart of any pasta salad, so cooking it just right is key! Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfect:
- Start with a large pot of salted water; it should taste like the ocean. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it. This prevents it from getting mushy once you mix in the dressing.
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Following these steps will keep your pasta salad light and refreshing! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Time Needed:
This creamy pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs to chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes for deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure not to overcook so it stays firm in the salad. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down completely. This will stop the cooking process and help avoid mushy pasta.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture together until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing gives the salad its delicious flavor!
3. Combine the Pasta and Dressing:
Now, add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to make sure the pasta is well coated with that creamy goodness.
4. Add the Veggies and Meat:
Fold in the diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, salami strips, mozzarella cheese cubes, and chopped fresh basil. This mix of ingredients will give the salad color, flavor, and texture!
5. Toss Everything Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring that everything is well combined with the creamy dressing.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste to see if it needs any additional seasoning. Serve it chilled and enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a quick meal at home!
This creamy pasta salad, loaded with colorful rotini and fresh ingredients, is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress everyone. Enjoy every bite! 😊
FAQ About Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini is a favorite for its texture and appearance, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the shape you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have a dietary restriction, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free mayonnaise substitute. These will still give you that creamy texture with a different flavor profile!
How Long Does This Salad Keep in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s best enjoyed within the first 2 days after preparation.
Can I Add More Vegetables or Proteins?
Yes! Feel free to customize your creamy pasta salad by adding more veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or peas. You can also throw in proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added nutrition!
