Are you looking for a refreshing and satisfying dish that pairs well with any occasion? This creamy pasta salad is a perfect choice! With its vibrant ingredients and rich dressing, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a side dish during dinner, this pasta salad will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe that promises to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 320 calories, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This nutritional information is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and black olives.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your creamy pasta salad!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your creamy pasta salad by substituting ingredients. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add proteins like diced chicken or tuna, or swap vegetables based on your preferences, such as bell peppers or corn.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or barbecues, bringing a delightful contrast to heartier meals.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, if you’d like to serve it warm, you can briefly heat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; cook until just al dente.
- Not rinsing the pasta can lead to clumping.
- Using too much mayonnaise can overpower the dish; start with less and add more as needed.
- Forgetting to chill the salad can result in a less refreshing taste.
- Not seasoning adequately can make the salad bland; taste and adjust before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Mix the salad a day in advance to allow flavors to meld.
- Experiment with different dressings for varied tastes.
- Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I make creamy pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare creamy pasta salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving to allow the flavors to develop.
What types of pasta work best for this salad?
Rotini, penne, or farfalle are great choices for creamy pasta salad as they hold the dressing well and add a nice texture.
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions, making the salad more filling.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this creamy pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for meatless meals or gatherings.
How long does creamy pasta salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, creamy pasta salad can last for about 3 days in the refrigerator while maintaining quality.
Conclusion
This creamy pasta salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy dressing and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to please a crowd. Whether you enjoy it as a side or a main dish, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and black olives.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your creamy pasta salad!
Nutrition
