Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a satisfying meal. This delightful salad combines perfectly cooked pasta with fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick lunch, this recipe promises to please all palates with its vibrant flavors and appealing textures. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will brighten your table.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Creamy Pasta Salad
Creamy Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser filled with color and crunch. With the soothing creaminess of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, every bite is rich and satisfying. The combination of fresh veggies adds a refreshing burst, making it light and hearty at the same time. Perfect for meal prep, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish for every occasion.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or basil) for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool to avoid overcooking.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and broccoli. Toss everything gently to mix.
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Step 3: Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Step 4: Finishing
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything well to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor!
How to Serve Creamy Pasta Salad
This salad is perfect served cold, making it an ideal dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or picnics. Serve it in a large bowl or individual cups alongside grilled meats, or pair it with a light vinaigrette salad for an inviting meal. It also stands alone as a satisfying lunch option!
How to Store Creamy Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry on the second day, you can add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit more mayonnaise to revive its creaminess.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta Salad
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente for the best texture.
- Add a Crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Customize It: Include proteins such as diced ham, chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Season Well: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill adequately; flavors meld beautifully when allowed to rest in the fridge.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta cheese, and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean vibe.
- Spicy Version: Stir in some diced jalapeños or add Sriracha to the dressing for heat.
- Vegan Option: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and add chickpeas for protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. - What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While rotini and penne are great choices, you can use any shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle. Just ensure it holds the dressing well. - Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! You can replace the creamy dressing with a vinaigrette for a lighter option. - What vegetables can I substitute?
Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with favorites such as zucchini, peas, or bell peppers based on your preference! - Is this a gluten-free recipe?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta.
Conclusion
Creamy Pasta Salad is an easy, versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or taste. With its refreshing vegetables and creamy dressing, it delivers a delightful experience with every bite. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Grab your ingredients and try this delicious recipe today—you won’t be disappointed!
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Creamy Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful salad combining perfectly cooked pasta with fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy dressing, perfect for gatherings or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool to avoid overcooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and broccoli. Toss everything gently to mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything well to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Revive creaminess with a splash of apple cider vinegar or more mayonnaise if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
