This creamy pasta salad is a colorful dish full of fun! With tender pasta, fresh veggies, and a rich dressing, it’s the perfect side for picnics or barbecues.
I love making this salad because it’s super easy! Just toss everything together and you’ve got a yummy meal that everyone will enjoy—perfect for hot days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta holds the dressing nicely. You can substitute it with fusilli or farfalle if you have those on hand. Both will work great!
Frozen Peas: They add a pop of color and sweetness. If you’re not a fan, you could swap them for green beans or even corn for a different taste.
Shredded Carrots: These provide crunch and sweetness. If fresh carrots aren’t available, you can use pre-packaged coleslaw mix, which may also add different textures.
Cheddar Cheese: Diced cheddar gives creaminess and flavor. You can replace it with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can substitute both. It adds a tangy taste and creamy texture!
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth?
Making the dressing smooth is key for a creamy pasta salad. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with mayonnaise and sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a whisk or fork to combine them well into a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard while whisking continuously. This helps to blend everything evenly without lumps.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you like). Tasting as you go ensures the flavor is just right!
Mixing should take just a couple of minutes. If your dressing feels too thick, a splash of water can help loosen it up, making it easier to coat the pasta.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or dill)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty creamy pasta salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and requires at least an hour to chill in the fridge. So, you’ll be enjoying a fresh and delightful dish in about 1 hour and 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Making the Dressing:
In another big bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you like). Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the flavorful dressing for your salad!
3. Combining Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta into the bowl with your dressing. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly so every piece is covered. Then, fold in the thawed peas, shredded carrots, and diced cheddar cheese, mixing well so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Chilling and Serving:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if you want. After that, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
5. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to serve, take out the salad and give it a gentle stir. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a beautiful garnish. Now, it’s all set to enjoy! Happy eating!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is wonderful for holding onto the dressing, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even shell pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and cool it thoroughly before mixing!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a creamy texture. You can even mix half mayonnaise and half yogurt for a balanced flavor and texture!
How Can I Customize This Salad?
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes. You can also swap out the cheddar for another cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may separate a bit.
