Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any gathering, especially during the warm summer months. With its vibrant colors, refreshing textures, and rich flavors, this easy pasta salad recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds. It showcases a delightful medley of ingredients, creating a harmony of taste that makes it a favorite at any event.
Ingredients
Scale:
12 ounces of rotini or penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 cup small cubes of mozzarella or feta cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Thaw the frozen peas under warm water and drain thoroughly.
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and cheese. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
Add the chopped parsley and basil to the salad, mixing them in gently.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
