This Creamy Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for any gathering! It’s made with pasta, fresh veggies, and a smooth dressing that brings everything together.
I love how colorful it looks with all the different veggies popping out. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that I often make it when I’m feeling lazy but want something yummy. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Shell pasta works great here, but feel free to swap for bowties, elbows, or even rotini. Different shapes can add fun textures to your salad!
Bacon: I love the crunch and flavor from crispy bacon. If you’re looking for something lighter, try turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian option, use smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Chicken: Using leftovers makes this dish super easy! If you’re short on chicken, diced ham or even chickpeas can serve as great alternatives.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: Together, they create a creamy base. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or a mix of both for tanginess.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders are key for a tasty profile. You could swap them out for fresh garlic and onion if you prefer, just adjust the quantities down to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta for salads requires some extra attention to ensure the right texture. You want it al dente, so it holds up when mixed in with the other ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding your pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions but check a minute or two early. This is crucial; you want it firm!
- Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent sticking.
- Spread out the pasta on a clean towel or baking sheet to cool completely. Avoid clumping while it cools.
Chilling the pasta before mixing in the dressing helps maintain that perfect bite in your final salad. Enjoy your creamy pasta salad!
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Other Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz shell pasta or any pasta of your choice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad will take about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, plan on about 50 minutes total until it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool on a paper towel. After it’s cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
4. Combine the Salad:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooled pasta, frozen peas, shredded or cubed chicken, and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir all the ingredients together until everything is coated in the dressing.
5. Season and Garnish:
Give the pasta salad a taste and add more salt or pepper if you think it needs it. When you’re happy with the flavor, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top as a garnish.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the lovely flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last stir and enjoy your delicious creamy pasta salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While shell pasta works great, feel free to substitute it with any pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best results.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and chicken. You can add more veggies, like bell peppers or cooked corn, to enhance flavor and texture. You could also include chickpeas for added protein!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the pasta salad even tastier the next day. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Prepare This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the pasta salad a day in advance. Just skip the garnish with green onions until you’re ready to serve to keep them fresh. This make-ahead option is perfect for picnics or gatherings!
