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Creamy pasta salad in a bowl garnished with fresh vegetables.

Creamy Pasta Salad Bliss

A bright and creamy pasta salad filled with fresh vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings or quick dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, shells, or penne) Small shapes hold the dressing beautifully.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Alternatively use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced Zucchini can be used for a subtle twist.
  • 1 cup bell pepper, finely chopped Mix colors for cheerfulness.
  • 1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced Soak in cold water for a milder bite if desired.
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed Green beans or corn are lovely alternatives.
Cheese
  • 1 cup cubed cheddar or feta Feta makes it more Mediterranean.
Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Use Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthy option.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or extra yogurt For additional creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice For brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional for depth.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and pepper
Fresh Herbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil), chopped
Optional Proteins
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, ham, or chickpeas To make it a main dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (usually 8 to 10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prep the vegetables: halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber and peppers, thinly slice onion, and thaw peas.
Dressing and Assembly
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss cooled pasta with the dressing until well coated.
  3. Fold in the vegetables and cheese, and protein if using.
  4. Stir in fresh herbs and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Serving
  1. Before serving, give it one last gentle toss. If it seems dry, stir in a splash of milk or more yogurt.

Notes

For a vegan version, swap mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use plant-based cheese. Add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch when serving.