Description
This Creamy Pasta Salad is a classic summer side dish made with tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a make-ahead lunch that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles or relish (optional)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add cooled pasta, celery, bell pepper, onion, and pickles to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly in dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add chopped boiled eggs, bacon, shredded cheddar, or even peas! Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter twist. Best enjoyed cold and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: creamy pasta salad, summer side dish, bbq salad, picnic pasta salad, cold pasta salad recipe