As the weather warms up, my mind always turns to fresh salads and dishes that can be enjoyed at room temperature. That’s where this creamy pasta salad comes in the article—it’s the perfect make-ahead side dish for picnics, potlucks, and barbecue gatherings all summer long. Here are instructions detailing everything you need to make a creamy pasta salad recipe.
1. Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or any pasta of your choice
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
Add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and thawed peas to the bowl. Gently toss to coat the pasta and ingredients with the creamy dressing.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the pasta salad to chill.
Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the Creamy Pasta Salad chilled as a delightful side dish or as a satisfying main course.
This Creamy Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. You can add additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream or substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It can be prepared in advance, making it a perfect option for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches. The flavors continue to develop and meld together as the pasta salad chills, resulting in a truly irresistible dish.