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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad

A quick and easy Creamy Pasta Salad made with tender rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, creamy dressing — ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, and family dinners!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 serves
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rotini pasta or bowtie, penne
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Cook rotini pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  • Dice red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shred carrots.
  • Add pasta and vegetables to the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Pros:

  • Quick to prepare (ready in 20 minutes)
  • Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
  • Perfect for make-ahead meals and gatherings
  • Customizable with extra toppings like bacon, cheese, or olives
  • Refreshing and colorful, ideal for warm weather

Cons:

  • Needs refrigeration if not eaten immediately
  • Not ideal for freezing (dressing may separate)
Keyword 20-Minute Recipes, BBQ sides, cold pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, pasta salad, picnic recipes, quick side dish, summer recipes