Easy Creamy Pasta Salad

Summer is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a light, vibrant dinner that captures the Creamy Pasta Salad.If you were to impress your loved one with a heartwarming dish that blends comfort with indulgence…

You know that one dish that somehow ends up at every barbecue or picnic or potluck or with the advent of summer Yes, it’s pasta salad and creamy pasta salad is truly the real MVP because it always hits different.

I still remember the first time I made this when we had a last-minute family gathering so things were a bit chaotic since there were missing spoons and someone brought three kinds of potato chips but forgot the dip. Classic. I had no idea what I was doing therefore I just tossed in what I had which was pasta plus a random mix of veggies along with way too much mayo yet it worked. Somehow everyone loved it even though my aunt usually hates anything creamy.

What I love about this one is that it’s chill,it’s also super forgiving. If you don’t have celery then just skip it or if you want to add bacon then absolutely go for it.

There’s no judgment if you sneak a few bites before serving since I do that every time.
Anyway if you’ve never made creamy pasta salad before this one is definitely for you.

So now let’s get into it.

Ingredients

Macaroni Salad

• 3 cups cooked pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3/4 cup diced sweet pickles
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion

Macaroni Salad Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle juice
• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tsp EACH pepper, garlic powder
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil Cook macaroni noodles in heavily salted water according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, then drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Step 2

Make the dressing:In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lemon juice or vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy.
Make dressing : Whisk the dressing ingredients together in a medium bowl

Step 3

Mix it all together: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir in the diced carrots, celery, peas, and any optional add-ins like cheese or meat. Stir carefully so you don’t break up the pasta.

Step 4

Chill before serving: Cover the bowl and put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can blend together. This step makes the salad extra tasty!
Taste and adjust: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste it. If you need, add a little more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice.

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

To make these yummy Creamy Pasta Salad , you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander (strainer)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for mixing dressing
• Whisk or spoon for stirring dressing
• Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping veggies
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving spoon
  

Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta Salad

Use short pasta shapes: Elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells work best. They hold the dressing better.

Don’t overcook the pasta: You want it firm, not mushy.

Customize it: Add cubed cheese, peas, corn, or even chicken if you like.

What to Eat with Creamy Pasta Salad ??

This macaroni salad is a delicious side dish and it is sure to impress everyone at any summer gathering because it is tasty and easy to make and here are some dishes you can serve it with to make your meal even better lik Fresas Crema Con to cool down the summer heat or Cooker Beef so feel free to get creative!

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