This creamy pasta salad is a lovely mix of pasta, veggies, and a smooth dressing that brings everything together. It’s light, fun, and perfect for picnics or BBQs!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a bowl of colorful pasta? I usually add in whatever veggies I have on hand. It’s like a surprise party for your taste buds! 🎉
Making this dish is super easy. I just cook the pasta, toss in the veggies, and mix with the dressing. It’s a winner every time, and you can have leftovers for lunch—score!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini as it’s fun to eat and holds the dressing well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta that you like. Even whole grain or gluten-free pasta works great!
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers are perfect for this salad. If you can’t find them, try grape tomatoes and zucchini instead. Both add freshness and crunch.
Cheese: Feta cheese adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use crumbled goat cheese or even Italian cheese blends. For a dairy-free option, try using a nut-based cheese.
Meat: Salami or pepperoni gives this salad a hearty touch. You can replace them with diced ham or turkey. If you’re vegetarian, skip it entirely or add chickpeas for protein!
Dressing: The combo of mayonnaise and sour cream makes it creamy. If you want to lighten it up, yogurt can replace them. Dairy-free mayo is a good substitute too!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is key for a great salad. You want it al dente—firm, but cooked through. Here’s how to nail it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta.
- Check the packaging for the exact cooking time. Timing is important!
- Test for doneness a minute or two before the time is up by tasting a piece.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Meat and Cheese:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cooked salami or pepperoni, sliced
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 30 minutes for chilling the salad in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the instructions on the package until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse thoroughly under cold water to cool it down. This helps prevent it from getting sticky!
2. Combine the Veggies and Pasta:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, sliced salami or pepperoni, and finely chopped red onion. Mix these together gently, so all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will add a delicious flavor to your pasta salad!
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Take a moment to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once you’re happy, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil on top for a lovely touch. Serve your creamy pasta salad cold as a delightful side dish or a light meal. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta variety you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan! Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan versions and omit the salami or pepperoni. You can also use a plant-based cheese alternative for the feta for a delicious, dairy-free option!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but it’s best to consume it within a couple of days for optimal freshness. Stir gently before serving as the dressing may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pasta salad by adding other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the other ingredients!
