This easy creamy pasta salad is a great mix of deliciousness! With tender pasta, fresh veggies, and a smooth dressing, it’s perfect for a picnic or barbecue.
You really can’t go wrong with this salad. It’s quick to make, and I love adding my favorite ingredients. Plus, it tastes even better the next day—bonus!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like using rotini for its twists that hold onto the dressing well. Any short pasta works fine, like penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative too, if needed!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of color and sweetness! If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes are great substitutes. Just make sure they aren’t too watery.
Bell Peppers: Feel free to mix colors for a vibrant salad. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, you can use cucumber instead for a refreshing twist!
Chickpeas: They add protein and creaminess. You can swap them for other beans like black beans or even diced cooked chicken for a heartier salad.
Cheese: I prefer mozzarella for its mild taste. Feta or crumbled goat cheese can add a nice tang! If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using vegan cheese alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Stays Creamy?
The secret to a creamy pasta salad is in the dressing! Make it fresh by mixing mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt. The combination adds richness, and adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice brightens it up.
- Mix the dressings together until smooth before tossing with the salad.
- If it thickens too much after refrigeration, add a little water or extra vinegar to loosen it.
Also, remember to coat the pasta immediately after it cools. This prevents it from sticking together and ensures every bit gets that delicious creamy goodness! Enjoy your pasta salad-making adventure!
Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or shallots
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. You’ll have a delicious creamy pasta salad ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling some water in a large pot. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, chopped spinach, rinsed chickpeas, halved Kalamata olives, cubed mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped red onion or shallots. Give everything a nice stir to combine the ingredients well.
3. Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), white vinegar (or lemon juice), dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Feel free to taste and add a little more seasoning if you like!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. It’s okay if some bits fall out—just scoop them back in!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a sealed container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This chilling step is important as it makes the salad even tastier.
6. Final Touch:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad another gentle toss. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. And there you have it—a delightful creamy pasta salad!
Enjoy this delicious, colorful dish at your next potluck, lunch, or as a side to any meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber. Gluten-free pasta works perfectly as well—just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as they can differ from traditional pasta.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken a bit, so you can add a splash of water or extra dressing before serving it again!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Dressing?
If you prefer a lighter option or want to avoid mayo, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise substitute. Both will still give you that creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try avocado or cashew cream for a delicious twist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your add-ins. Diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even diced avocado are great choices. For extra protein, consider adding chunks of grilled chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs!
