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Creamy Dreamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Dreamy Pasta Salad: A Colorful Twist for Every Bite

Enjoy a vibrant Creamy Dreamy Pasta Salad filled with colors and textures, perfect for meal prep and gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini or Fusilli Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free variation.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can substitute with diced regular tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Zucchini can be a lower-calorie substitute.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Any bell pepper variety can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Green olives can be used instead.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Green onions can serve as a milder substitute.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Swap with fresh peas if in season.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based option.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Basil For garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chopping board
  • spatula

Method
 

Directions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, chop the bell pepper, slice the olives and red onion, and thaw the peas. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: In the mixing bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled pasta. Gently fold in the dressing, ensuring all ingredients are coated.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Taste the dressing before chilling to adjust seasoning. Cool pasta thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Mix delicate veggies right before serving for added freshness.

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