This creamy pasta salad is a delightful mix of tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a rich dressing that brings all the flavors together. It’s perfect for picnics and barbecues!
Every bite feels like a party, especially with those colorful veggies popping out! I love making it ahead of time so I can sit back and enjoy the compliments at gatherings. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using mixed color rotini for a fun look. If rotini isn’t available, any short pasta like penne or farfalle works too. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if you prefer a gluten-free version.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. If they’re out of season, grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes can work as well. You could even skip the tomatoes for a simpler salad.
Cucumber: Diced cucumber adds crunch. For a twist, try using bell peppers or even diced zucchini for a different flavor and texture. Pickles can also be a fun substitute if you enjoy their tanginess.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for creaminess. If you want to change things up, try cubed cheddar, feta, or even a dairy-free cheese option.
Deli Meats: I often use salami or ham, but feel free to use turkey, chicken, or leave them out for a vegetarian option. Tofurky slices are great for a veggie version.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Isn’t Soggy?
Cooking pasta just right is vital for a good salad. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect al dente texture:
- Boil a pot of salted water and add the rotini. Cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Taste the pasta a minute or two before it’s done. It should be firm but not hard.
- Once done, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from getting mushy.
- Spread it on a baking sheet to cool further while preparing the other ingredients. This helps it cool evenly.
Following these steps will give you a wonderful base for your creamy pasta salad!
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (mixed colors for visual appeal)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1 cup deli meats (such as salami or ham), sliced into strips
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup creamy dressing (such as ranch, mayonnaise, or a combination)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs for garnish
Cheese and Meats:
Fresh Ingredients:
Dressing and Seasoning:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will stop the cooking process and keep your pasta salad fresh!
2. Mixing the Vegetables and Cheeses:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, red bell pepper, diced mozzarella cheese, and the deli meats. Don’t forget the green onions and fresh basil; these will add a lovely flavor!
3. Dressing It Up:
Now for the fun part! Pour your choice of creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors start to blend beautifully.
4. Seasoning and Chilling:
Season your pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a little extra flavor, sprinkle in some Italian seasoning. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a tastier salad!
5. Final Touch and Serving:
Before serving, give your pasta salad a good toss again to mix everything up. Taste it one more time and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with extra basil or herbs if you want, then serve chilled for a refreshing side dish or light meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute regular rotini pasta with gluten-free rotini. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes require less or more cooking time.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this pasta salad with a variety of veggies! Try adding bell peppers of different colors, chopped spinach, or even steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply use a dairy-free creamy dressing and replace the mozzarella cheese and deli meats with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan cheese and marinated tofu or chickpeas for protein. Adjust the seasonings as needed to fit your taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or separate when stored. If it looks dry, add a splash of dressing to refresh it!
