This creamy pasta salad is a refreshing and tasty dish perfect for any gathering! It combines tender pasta with colorful veggies and a smooth, zesty dressing that adds a delightful touch.
I love making this salad for picnics; it’s quick to whip up and always a hit! Plus, it’s easy to customize with my favorite ingredients—like adding olives or chicken for a twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta is great for holding sauce. If you want to mix it up, try fusilli or penne instead. Gluten-free pasta works well too if you’re avoiding gluten!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you can use regular tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Cucumber: A crunchy addition! For a twist, you could use bell peppers for crunch or even zucchini if that’s what you have on hand.
Black Olives: They add a salty punch. If you’re not a fan of olives, feel free to leave them out or swap in capers or pickles for a different zing!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta enhances the creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan feta or omit cheese altogether.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy dressing. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that still delivers creaminess, and you can use it alone or with mayo for the dressing.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Creating a balanced dressing is key to bringing your pasta salad to life. Here’s how to make it smooth and delicious:
- Start with mayonnaise and sour cream as your base—this combo gives a rich texture.
- Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for some zing, and red wine vinegar for acidity. These brighten the flavors nicely!
- Season with salt and pepper, and give it a taste. Adjust to your liking; you can add more vinegar if you prefer it tangy.
After mixing your ingredients, let the salad chill in the fridge. This lets the dressing soak into the pasta and veggies, taking the flavor up a notch.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini pasta (a mix of colored if desired)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami or pepperoni, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For The Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Total time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick and refreshing dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once the water is boiling, add in the rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step helps to stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, sliced salami or pepperoni, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients well.
3. Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until well combined and smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Now, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. It’s important to be gentle so that you don’t break up the pasta or veggies too much.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors to mingle and enhances the taste of your pasta salad.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your creamy pasta salad cold. It’s perfect for a picnic, barbecue, or as a side dish for dinner. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, bowties, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a mayonnaise alternative, Greek yogurt works wonderfully! It provides a similar creaminess with added protein. You can also use vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to keep it refrigerated, and give it a good stir before serving as the ingredients might settle.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of vinegar or extra dressing before serving again!
