creamy pasta salad recipe
- The Best creamy pasta salad recipe
- Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing
- š„Ingredients
- šØāš³Directions
- š§Equipment
- šNutrition Facts (per serving)
- šNotes
- Watch Video Of How Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing Works
- ā Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing
The Best creamy pasta salad recipe
I also love how itās packed with nutrients. The pasta gives you complex carbs for energy, the veggies add fiber and vitamins, and the dressing is usually made with Greek yogurt or light mayo, which keeps it heart-healthy without sacrificing creaminess. Itās one of those recipes that feels indulgent but is actually pretty balanced. And honestly, itās so easy to customizeāswap out the veggies, add some diced tomatoes or avocado, or even throw in some cooked shrimp if youāre feeling fancy. Itās that kind of recipe that makes me feel like Iām doing something good for my family without having to stress over it. Plus, itās always a crowd-pleaser, whether youāre serving it at a potluck or just grabbing a bowl for lunch.
Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing
A refreshing and creamy pasta salad perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a light lunch. Packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, this dish is versatile and easy to customize.
š„Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- Ā½ red bell pepper, diced
- Ā½ cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
- Ā½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
- Ā¼ cup (60ml) Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped)
- Ā½ tsp salt
- Ā¼ tsp black pepper
- Ā¼ cup (30ml) chopped fresh parsley
- Ā½ cup (75g) diced ham or cooked chicken
- Ā¼ cup (30g) chopped walnuts or almonds
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
šØāš³Directions
-
1
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool. -
2
In a food processor, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, dill, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in parsley. -
3
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly. -
4
Fold in optional add-ins like ham, nuts, or olive oil if using. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
š§Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Colander
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor (optional for dressing)
- Serving platter
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
- Tip: For a lighter version, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo.
- Tip: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Watch Video Of How Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pasta Salad with Herbed Dressing
What is the best way to prevent the pasta salad from getting soggy?
To keep your creamy pasta salad fresh and dry, rinse the cooked pasta under cold water after draining to remove excess starch. Use a shallow bowl to gently toss the pasta with a bit of cold water, then drain again before combining with the dressing. Additionally, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and consume within 2ā3 days for the best texture.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time, and if so, for how long?
Yes, this creamy pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it 1ā2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and keep it covered to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir before eating to reincorporate any separated dressing.
What are some great add-ins to customize this pasta salad?
You can easily customize this pasta salad with a variety of ingredients! Try adding diced veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or steamed broccoli. For extra protein, include cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. For a Mediterranean twist, add Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill also enhance the flavor.
How do I adjust the creaminess of the dressing if itās too thick or too thin?
If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a little extra milk or water to thin it out. If itās too thin, reduce the liquid slightly and stir in a bit more mayo, sour cream, or cream cheese to thicken it. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
Is this pasta salad suitable for dietary restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe! For a gluten-free version, ensure your pasta is certified gluten-free and use a gluten-free mayo or dairy-free alternative. For a dairy-free version, substitute mayo with avocado cream, coconut yogurt, or a dairy-free dressing blend. Always check labels to avoid hidden ingredients.
