This creamy pasta salad is a tasty mix of colorful veggies and pasta tossed in a smooth dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and potlucks, bringing a burst of flavor to any table!
Honestly, I love how it can be made ahead of time! Just pack it in a bowl and watch it disappear at gatherings. Plus, you can add your favorite veggies—so fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its shape holds onto the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like fusilli or penne works nicely too.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you can use halved grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes in a pinch!
Black Olives: Black olives give a briny flavor; if you prefer something milder, try green olives. If you’re avoiding olives, consider adding capers for a similar briny kick.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a creamy texture and tang. If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese is a great option, or you can use mozzarella for a milder taste.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: This creamy base is key for texture. Greek yogurt can replace both for a healthier twist, giving a nice tang without losing creaminess.
How Do You Ensure Your Pasta Salad is Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a creamy pasta salad is the right mixing technique. Start with cooled pasta to prevent excess moisture. Rinse it under cold water after cooking to keep it from sticking together.
- Mix your dressing smoothly before adding it to the pasta.
- Gently fold the pasta with the dressing and other ingredients. This helps to evenly coat without mashing the pasta.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend nicely. Tasting before serving is always a good idea—it can help you adjust any seasonings!
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Garnish:
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to get this tasty side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps keep the pasta from getting mushy!
2. Mixing the Veggies and Cheese:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, and cubed feta cheese. Mix gently with a spoon to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is the tasty dressing that will bring everything together!
4. Combining Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over the pasta veggie mix. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in the creamy dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
5. Chilling Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors blend together nicely, making every bite delicious!
6. Garnishing and Enjoying:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. Give it a quick stir and garnish the top with freshly chopped basil. Serve it chilled and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will give your salad a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber, while gluten-free pasta options, like brown rice or chickpea pasta, will work just as well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute an equal amount of Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise for a healthier twist, or use an avocado-based dressing for a creamy, dairy-free option. Just blend until smooth before adding it to your pasta salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving as the dressing might thicken a bit.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding in or substituting vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or peas. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans for extra protein. Just make sure the overall ratio of wet to dry ingredients remains balanced for a perfect texture!
