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Creamy Summer Pasta Salad

Creamy Summer Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Any BBQ

Creamy Summer Pasta Salad is a delightful side dish perfect for any BBQ, quick to make and endlessly customizable.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Short Pasta (rigatoni, penne, or rotini) Choose your preferred type.
For the Fresh Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced for added color.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Sliced for crunch.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for easy mixing.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Base for the dressing.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Optional for tangy twist.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard Adds a zesty kick.
  • 2 tbsp Vinegar Apple cider or white wine for brightness.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese For added umami.
  • Optional Add-ins Consider grilled chicken, bacon, or olives.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add pasta, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prep Vegetables: Wash and chop bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and vinegar until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta and vegetables, pour dressing over, and toss gently until well coated.
  5. Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

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