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Creamy Pasta Salad

A vibrant and delicious creamy pasta salad that's perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a comforting meal at home. This versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser with rich flavors and delightful textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 2 cups short pasta (e.g., rotini, penne or fusilli) Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped Use any color bell peppers you like.
  • 1 cup cucumbers, chopped Peeling is optional.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved You can also quarter them if desired.
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream.
  • 1 tablespoon herbs and spices Add to taste.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup shredded chicken or ham For added protein.
  • 1/2 cup olive or cheese For extra flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, chop bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Once pasta is done, drain it and rinse under cold water until cool.
Mix Ingredients
  1. Combine cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables in a large bowl.
  2. Fold in the mayonnaise or chosen dressing along with herbs and spices.
  3. If using, mix in shredded chicken or ham and any optional add-ins.
Chill and Serve
  1. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
  2. Serve on its own or alongside grilled meats and bread.

Notes

To prevent stickiness, rinse pasta under cold water. Experiment with different dressings or add-ins like olives and nuts to suit your taste.