This creamy pasta salad is a picnic favorite! Filled with tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a rich dressing, it’s fresh and satisfying—all in one bowl.
It’s like a party in your mouth! I love serving it at get-togethers, and it always gets gobbled up. Plus, you can easily make it ahead—less stress, more fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is great for catching the dressing and flavors. If you don’t have rotini, you can also use penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you like. Tri-color pasta adds lovely visual appeal, but regular pasta works just as well.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty bite to the salad. If you’re not a feta fan, try using crumbled goat cheese or a shredded mozzarella instead for a milder taste. You can also make it dairy-free by using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives the dressing a nice tang. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard can substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. For a milder taste, you could skip the mustard altogether.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: Together they create a creamy dressing. For lighter options, consider plain Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and a bit of olive oil. You can also use vegan mayo or dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based version.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta correctly makes a big difference in texture. Follow these simple tips to achieve perfect pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water for flavor.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente, a bit firm to the bite, so it holds up well in the salad.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
By rinsing the pasta, you prevent clumping and ensure it mixes well with the dressing and other ingredients in your salad. Don’t skip this step!
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini pasta (tri-color if available)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That’s a total of around 50 minutes from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and give it a rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly. Set the pasta aside.
2. Mixing the Vegetables:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and cubed feta cheese. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Making the Dressing:
In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be the creamy dressing that ties everything together!
4. Combining It All:
Pour the creamy dressing over your cooled pasta and toss it gently so that all the pasta is coated evenly. Next, add the vegetable mixture into the bowl and carefully mix everything until well combined. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
5. Chilling and Serving:
Cover your pasta salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Enjoy your refreshing pasta salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nice nutty flavor, while gluten-free pasta is a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may differ.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist with added creaminess. Another alternative is using a vegan mayonnaise if you prefer a plant-based option. Adjust seasoning accordingly, as yogurt can be tangier than mayo!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find the pasta salad is a bit dry after refrigerating, just stir in a splash of lemon juice or a little extra mayonnaise before serving.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies like spinach, broccoli, or carrots. Just make sure they are chopped into small pieces for even distribution. You could also throw in some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad!
