This creamy pasta salad is a happy mix of pasta, crunchy veggies, and a smooth dressing that ties it all together. It’s colorful, tasty, and super easy to whip up for any occasion!
I love serving it on warm days or at picnics because it feels so refreshing. Plus, you can add any veggies you have on hand. Customize it and make it your own! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing nicely. If you don’t have rotini, try penne, fusilli, or farfalle for similar results.
Frozen Peas: Thawed peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness. If you’re not a fan, consider using chopped bell peppers or green beans instead.
Carrots: Shredded carrots bring crunch and sweetness. Bagged pre-shredded carrots are convenient, but you could swap in diced cucumber for a refreshing twist.
Cheddar Cheese: I choose sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for allergy-friendly options.
How Do I Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
The dressing is key for a creamy pasta salad. Start by whisking the mayonnaise and sour cream until no lumps remain. Then, slowly mix in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This layering helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Use a large bowl for easy mixing, and combine well to ensure each pasta piece gets coated.
- Don’t rush this step; the dressing makes the salad! Adjust the seasoning after mixing for taste.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. Most of the time is for allowing the flavors to come together, making it a great make-ahead dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the instructions on the package. You want it to be al dente, which means firm to the bite. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse under cold water. This helps cool it down and stops the cooking process.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, thawed peas, shredded carrots, and cubed cheddar cheese. This is where the colorful and tasty ingredients come together!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds a wonderful flavor to your salad!
4. Mix it All Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir everything together until well combined. Make sure every piece of pasta and vegetable is coated in that delicious dressing!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. If you think it needs a little more seasoning, feel free to add extra salt and pepper. Adjust it to your liking!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Now you’re ready to enjoy your creamy pasta salad! It’s perfect for picnics, parties, or just a tasty side dish at home.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or even macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and allow it to cool before mixing it in.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have an aversion to mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It will add a nice creaminess and a bit of tang. You can also use a dairy-free mayonnaise if you’re keeping it vegan.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Creamy Pasta Salad?
Leftover creamy pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients can settle. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of vinegar or a bit more mayonnaise to refresh it!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure they are chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
