Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or an easy weeknight side, this Creamy Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines zesty flavors with fresh, colorful ingredients. Featuring al dente pasta tossed in a rich, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, this salad delivers a harmonious balance of creaminess and brightness. Crunchy celery, vibrant red bell pepper, sweet peas, and chopped parsley add bursts of flavor and texture, while shredded cheese provides a satisfying savory touch. Quick to prepare, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes and tastes even better after chilling, making it the ideal make-ahead recipe. Serve it at your next barbecue, picnic, or party for a refreshing, hearty side that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss it gently to coat the pasta with the dressing evenly.
Fold in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, thawed peas, shredded cheese, and parsley. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve cold and enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta salad!
Calories |
3252 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 239.3 g | 307% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.0 g | 280% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 413 mg | 138% | |
| Sodium | 4143 mg | 180% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 220.2 g | 80% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.7 g | 85% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.7 g | ||
| Protein | 66.2 g | 132% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1118 mg | 86% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1422 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.