This Creamy Pasta Salad is your quick, delicious solution for warm-weather meals. With a perfectly balanced creamy dressing, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta, it comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a BBQ, or a quick lunch, this easy pasta salad delivers cool, comforting flavor every time. The dressing combines mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard for a tangy, smooth bite that ties everything together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta Salad
Quick and Fuss-Free
You can have this salad ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish. With simple pantry staples and fresh vegetables, it’s perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Classic Flavor, Modern Twist
This version of creamy pasta salad keeps all the nostalgic flavor of the original while lightening it slightly with a touch of lemon juice and sour cream for balance.
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Creamy Pasta Salad: Easy 15-Minute Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, tangy, and refreshing pasta salad packed with colorful vegetables and a smooth dressing. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or quick lunches.
Ingredients
Rigatoni or rotini pasta – 8 oz
Cucumber (diced) – 1 cup
Grape tomatoes (halved) – 1 cup
Red onion (finely chopped) – ½ cup
Bell pepper (diced) – ½ cup
Frozen peas (thawed) – ½ cup
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – ½ cup
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup
Sour cream – ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
Salt and pepper – to taste
Crispy bacon bits (optional) – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and cool completely.
2. Chop cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Thaw peas under cold water.
3. Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar or lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Combine cooled pasta, vegetables, and cheese in a large bowl.
5. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
6. Add crispy bacon bits if using. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Cool pasta before adding dressing to avoid sogginess.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
Add herbs or protein for a customized salad.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Choosing the Perfect Ingredients
The Pasta
Use rigatoni or rotini for the best texture. Their shape catches the creamy dressing perfectly without turning soggy. Always cook pasta al dente, so it keeps its structure after mixing.
The Vegetables
Crunchy cucumber, sweet grape tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper bring color and crispness. The addition of peas adds a pop of sweetness, balancing the tangy dressing.
Making the Creamy Dressing
The Base
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This mix gives the salad its smooth, tangy flavor that pairs well with fresh vegetables.
Balancing Flavor
Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to preference, or add a pinch of garlic powder for depth. For extra zing, stir in a spoonful of pickle juice or a touch more mustard.
Bringing Everything Together
Mixing the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, vegetables, and any optional cheese. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated. Every piece should glisten with creamy dressing.
Adding Protein and Crunch
Add crispy bacon bits or grilled chicken for heartiness. These additions turn the salad from a simple side into a satisfying main course.
Serving and Presentation
Ideal for Gatherings
Serve the salad chilled in a large bowl, topped with fresh herbs and black pepper. It’s a versatile side dish that complements everything from grilled meats to sandwiches.
Visual Appeal
Use a mix of colorful vegetables to make the salad stand out on the table. A light sprinkle of paprika or parsley before serving adds a restaurant-style finish.
Tips for Success
Keep Pasta Cool
Allow pasta to cool fully before mixing with the dressing. This keeps it from absorbing too much sauce and maintains the creamy texture.
Make It Your Own
Customize your salad by adding shredded cheddar, cubed ham, or roasted corn. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Storing and Make-Ahead Tips
Make Ahead for Flavor
This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. The flavors meld and deepen, making it perfect for meal prep or parties.
Storing Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir gently before serving to refresh the dressing if it thickens.
FAQs About Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after resting in the fridge for an hour or two.
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt makes a lighter version that’s still creamy and tangy.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short shapes like rigatoni, penne, or rotini work perfectly because they hold the dressing well.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the bacon or use crispy chickpeas or nuts for crunch.
What can I serve with creamy pasta salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pasta Salad is proof that simple recipes can still be big on flavor. With its crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and quick prep time, it’s an easy go-to for any summer gathering. Serve it chilled, bring it to your next BBQ, or enjoy it as a satisfying lunch. For another refreshing and flavorful summer salad, try our Creamy Pasta Salad – Your Summer 2025 BBQ Hit — a slightly richer, crowd-favorite version that pairs perfectly with any grilled meal.