The Ultimate Pasta Salad is a perfect mix of fresh vegetables, savory flavors, and a creamy dressing. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a potluck, picnic, or a quick lunch. This recipe is simple yet packed with delicious ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser every time!
The Ultimate Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (rotini, bowtie, penne, or your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- If you’re adding bacon, cook and crumble it, then set aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Combine Everything:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, and/or feta), olives, crumbled bacon (if using), and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together gently until well-coated.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld together. The salad can be made ahead of time, and the flavors will only improve after sitting in the fridge.
- Before serving, garnish with additional fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this pasta salad into a more substantial meal.
- Avocado: For extra creaminess, add diced avocado just before serving.
- Pickles or Relish: For a tangy twist, add diced pickles or sweet relish to the salad.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, dill, or oregano can add even more depth to the flavor.
Tips:
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you love – like carrots, peas, or corn.
- Make it Vegan: Skip the cheese and bacon, and use a vegan mayonnaise alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more vinegar, or for a creamier version, increase the sour cream or yogurt.
The Ultimate Pasta Salad is a versatile, fresh, and flavorful dish that can be served at almost any gathering. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Enjoy the colorful, satisfying combination of pasta, veggies, cheese, and creamy dressing!