Creamy Pasta Salad

Looking for a versatile, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? This Creamy Pasta Salad is your go-to recipe! Packed with fresh vegetables and enveloped in a rich, creamy dressing, this pasta salad is a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a potluck, this dish will be a favorite on the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to make this creamy pasta salad, and it always turns out to be such a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy dressing makes every bite delightful. The tanginess of the apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a harmonious flavor that everyone will love. It’s the ideal side dish for any occasion, and I find that it pairs well with so many main courses, from grilled meats to sandwiches. Plus, it’s a breeze to prep in under 30 minutes, and it’s perfect for making ahead of time.

Ingredients

1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)

1 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup black olives, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Then, mix in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and fresh parsley. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Variations

I love how adaptable this creamy pasta salad is! You can easily swap out or add different vegetables depending on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a little extra crunch, try adding some diced celery or radishes. If you’re a fan of cheese, throw in some shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for added flavor. To make it a heartier dish, I’ve even added grilled chicken or bacon bits for extra protein. For a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge, and I find it actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and it should last for up to 3 days in the fridge. I don’t recommend reheating this salad, as it’s best served chilled. If it seems a little dry after being stored, you can add a small amount of mayonnaise or sour cream to freshen it up.

Related Recipes:

• Classic Chicken Salad
• Taco Pasta Salad

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! I like to use rotini or penne, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Bowtie, fusilli, or macaroni all work great in this recipe.

How can I make this pasta salad spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, you can add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes also adds a nice kick!

Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. I usually prepare it the day before, which gives the flavors more time to blend together. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this creamy pasta salad vegan, you can swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan versions. There are many great plant-based mayo and sour cream options available that will work perfectly in this dish.

Can I add protein to this pasta salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, bacon, or even chickpeas can be added to this pasta salad to make it more filling. Just toss it in with the vegetables and pasta, and you’re good to go.

Conclusion

This creamy pasta salad is everything I look for in a side dish—simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy dressing creates a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, and leftovers keep well for a couple of days. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at the table!