– **Title**: Creamy Pasta Salad
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of pasta (such as rotini, penne, or fusilli)
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing mixture and toss to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated evenly.
4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, green onions, and cheddar cheese, if using. Mix gently to combine.
5. Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and check for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled.
Enjoy your creamy pasta salad as a delightful side dish or a light meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using small pasta shells for this recipe because they hold onto the creamy dressing well. If you can’t find shells, elbow macaroni works perfectly too, or you can try penne or fusilli for a fun twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. If you want a healthier version, turkey bacon or even bacon bits can be swapped in. Vegetarian? Consider using smoked paprika instead for a smoky flavor without the meat.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the base for the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It’s healthier but will still keep the creaminess. You could also mix mayo with yogurt for the best of both worlds!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s easy. But if you have leftovers or even canned chicken, those are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, diced tofu or chickpeas could be delicious in this salad.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice sharp flavor. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can work as substitutes. If you want to keep it dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great alternative for a cheesy taste without the cheese.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Isn’t Soggy?
Cooking the pasta correctly is key to avoiding a soggy salad. Make sure you cook it al dente, as it will absorb dressing while cooling. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down, which helps keep it firm.
- Boil water with salt—this seasons the pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions, around 8-10 minutes.
- Drain, then rinse with cold water to cool it off and prevent further cooking.
By following these steps, your pasta salad will remain fresh and delicious. Always remember to refrigerate it after combining, as this allows the flavors to mix beautifully without becoming mushy.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) small pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks. Letting it chill allows all the delicious flavors to blend together nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta shells or elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until they are tender but still slightly firm (al dente). After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and shredded chicken. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix everything together.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creamy dressing will add a lot of flavor!
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the pasta salad and add more salt or pepper if needed. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully!
5. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve the pasta salad, give it another gentle toss. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious creamy pasta salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While small pasta shells or elbow macaroni work great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No worries! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use a mixture of unsweetened sour cream and a bit of olive oil. Adjust the amounts to your taste, and you’ll still achieve a creamy consistency!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making in advance! Prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together! Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it seems a bit dry the next day, simply add a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream to refresh it before serving!
