Description
Looking for the best creamy pasta salad recipe? This one is quick, easy, and loaded with crunchy veggies! Whether you’re after a simple lunch idea or a healthy summer side, this colorful pasta salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, and make ahead meals. Save this easy salad recipe for your next cookout!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz shell pasta
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, chopped veggies, and dressing together.
- Fold in parsley and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add cheese, bacon, or pickles for variety.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Reserve a bit of dressing to refresh salad later.
- Great for lunchboxes and picnics.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boil and Mix
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg