This Easy Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, veggies, and a yummy dressing that brings all the flavors together. It’s perfect for picnics or as a side with dinner!
Whenever I make this salad, I love how quick it comes together. Plus, it tastes even better the next day! That’s a win in my book! 🍝🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This fun, spiraled pasta holds onto the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, penne or fusilli work too. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used as substitutes.
Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and sweetness to the salad. You can swap it for yellow or orange bell peppers, or even diced cucumbers for a different texture.
Black olives: These add a briny flavor. If you prefer, use green olives or skip them altogether if you’re not a fan.
Salami or pepperoni: They bring a hearty taste, but you can replace them with cooked chicken, turkey, or omit for a vegetarian version. Chickpeas could also provide a great protein boost!
Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella is lovely in this salad. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella or even feta cheese adds a nice tangy flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
A creamy dressing is key to bringing the pasta salad together. Start by whisking together the mayonnaise and sour cream as your base. This combination gives a rich, creamy texture.
- Mix in Italian dressing for flavor—you can make your own with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs if you’d like!
- Add garlic powder and oregano for extra herbal notes.
- Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. This small step makes a huge difference!
Once mixed, combine the dressing with the pasta and veggies gently to keep everything intact. Letting it chill for an hour helps the flavors meld beautifully!
Easy Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup diced salami or pepperoni
- 1 cup diced mozzarella cheese
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh chopped basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Italian Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to chill. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for gatherings or meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian dressing, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. This dressing will give your salad a delightful flavor!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl along with the diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced salami or pepperoni, and diced mozzarella cheese. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir all the ingredients together, making sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Give the salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you want. You can add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your preferences!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This cooling time helps the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the tri-color rotini with gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they might vary slightly from regular pasta.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken a bit over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it a few hours or even the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the fridge covered to keep it fresh!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
The beauty of pasta salad is its versatility! You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, or grated carrots for extra crunch and flavor. Feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies!
