Ingredients
Scale
Essential ingredients for creamy pasta salad, featuring fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy dressing base. 1 lb of pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne works well)
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice (for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, onions, and peas)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard (if using), vinegar or lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Dressing: Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl and pour the dressing over it. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Mix in your chopped vegetables and fresh herbs. You can use whatever you like, but common choices include cucumber, bell peppers, and peas.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Notes
For a delicious variation, add grilled chicken, bacon bits, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Pasta, Creamy, Salad, Vegetables, Side Dish