Description
A versatile creamy pasta salad loaded with fresh vegetables and coated in a smooth, flavorful dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for gatherings, picnics, or meal prep, this salad combines rotini or penne pasta with a tangy mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, enhanced by crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and zesty red onions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups pasta (rotini or penne)
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and bell peppers to the dressing bowl. Then add the cooled pasta.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled for best taste.
Notes
- Add cheese cubes or olives for extra flavor and texture.
- The pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
