Here’s a recipe for a Creamy Pasta Salad that is sure to be a hit at any gathering! This dish combines crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and pasta in a way that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish, this pasta salad is a flavorful addition to any meal.
Creamy Pasta Salad
This Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of crunch and creaminess, making it a delightful side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as part of a festive buffet, its bright flavors and colorful appearance are sure to win over your guests.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours to overnight
Serving: 6-8
Equipment: Large pot, colander, medium mixing bowl
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of macaroni elbow or Conchigliette and Ditalini
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ¼ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 thinly sliced green onions
- ¼ cup sweet salad cubes
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup crumbled, small cubed or shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetable Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the celery, red and green bell peppers, green onions, sweet salad cubes, red wine vinegar, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
- Make the Dressing: Add the mayonnaise and sour cream to the vegetable mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooled pasta to the creamy vegetable mix. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese until well distributed throughout the salad.
This Creamy Pasta Salad is not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to tweak the ingredients according to your taste preferences or based on what you have on hand. Serve this salad slightly chilled for the best experience, and watch as it becomes the talk of the table!