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pasta salad recipes

Creamy Homemade Pasta Salad

This creamy homemade pasta salad is packed with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a smooth tangy dressing. It’s refreshing, comforting, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups rotini pasta or fusilli
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • ½ cup red bell pepper diced
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup sweet corn kernels
  • ¼ cup black olives sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until tender but slightly firm. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables
  4. Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and onion. Slice the cherry tomatoes and olives. Keep the pieces bite-sized so the salad mixes evenly.
  5. Make the Dressing
  6. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine the Salad
  8. In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, corn, olives, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  9. Chill the Salad
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the pasta absorb the dressing and enhances the flavor.
  11. Garnish and Serve
  12. Before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, fresh dill, or cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Always salt pasta water for better flavor.
  • Let pasta cool before adding dressing to prevent it from becoming too thick.
  • If the salad becomes dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of milk, yogurt, or lemon juice.
  • Chop vegetables evenly for the best texture in every bite.