This Easy Creamy Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, colorful veggies, and a smooth dressing that ties everything together. It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a pasta salad that’s ready in minutes? I can whip this up when friends pop by—or just for me to enjoy all week long. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic for this salad, but any small pasta works great! Try fusilli or rotini for a fun twist. You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap Greek yogurt for sour cream. Vegan mayo also works if you want a dairy-free version.
Vegetables: Celery brings crunch while bell peppers add sweetness. Feel free to mix it up! Try cucumbers, peas, or diced tomatoes based on what’s on hand or in season.
Herbs: I love adding fresh parsley or dill for flavor. If you don’t have these, dried herbs are a nice alternative or skip them entirely for simplicity.
What’s the Key to a Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is where the magic happens! Start with mayonnaise and sour cream as your base. Here’s how to make it perfectly creamy:
- Combine mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and vinegar (or lemon juice) in a bowl.
- Add sugar to balance the tangy flavors and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until smooth, making sure all ingredients are well blended.
This dressing needs a little time to marinate with the pasta and veggies for full flavor, so don’t skip the chilling step!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad with Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it thoroughly!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This will add great flavor to your salad!
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Gently toss the pasta in the dressing until it’s well coated, making sure every piece of pasta gets that delicious creamy goodness!
4. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to mix in the vegetables! Stir in the finely chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, shredded carrot, red onion (if you’re using it), and shredded cheddar cheese (if you like it cheesy). Toss everything together until it’s all evenly distributed.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
For a nice touch of flavor, mix in the freshly chopped parsley or dill. These herbs will brighten up the dish!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This step is important as the flavors will blend beautifully during this time.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad one last gentle stir and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Then, scoop it into bowls and enjoy your creamy pasta salad!
Enjoy your creamy, easy pasta salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, feel free to use any small pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or penne. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It provides creaminess and adds protein. You can also find vegan mayo if you want a dairy-free version!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after a day, you can add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar to freshen it up.
