Table of Contents
introduction
This creamy Italian pasta salad is simple, cold, and full of flavor. It mixes rotini, fresh veggies, cheese, and a smooth dressing. The salad works for picnics, potlucks, or quick meals, and you can compare styles with a classic Caesar salad recipe for different ideas.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is fast, tasty, and feeds a crowd. It uses easy ingredients you can find in any store. The salad holds well in the fridge and stays creamy. Kids and adults both like it.
how to make The ULTIMATE Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Follow the steps below and you will have a bright, creamy salad. Cook the pasta, mix the vegetables and cheese, make the dressing, then toss everything together and chill. Keep the pieces small so each bite has many flavors.
Ingredients :
- 1 box Rotini Pasta (cooked & cooled)
- 1 cup Italian Dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, bell peppers, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
how to serve The ULTIMATE Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Serve this salad cold. Put it in a big bowl and use a spoon or tongs. It pairs well with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or as a side to any main dish. Garnish with extra mozzarella or fresh basil if you like.
how to store The ULTIMATE Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days. Stir it before serving again. If it looks dry, add a little more Italian dressing or a spoon of mayo and toss.
tips to make The ULTIMATE Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
- Cool the pasta fully before mixing so the dressing does not get thin.
- Chop vegetables small for easy eating.
- Use good quality Italian dressing for the best flavor.
- If you want a lighter version, use plain yogurt instead of some mayonnaise. You can also read a different salad method on the caesar salad recipe page for other dressing ideas.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken, salami, or pepperoni for a meatier salad.
- Swap rotini for bowtie or penne.
- Use feta instead of mozzarella for a tangy twist.
- Add cucumber, spinach, or artichoke hearts for extra veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill. Stir before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: No. Mayo and fresh vegetables do not freeze well. Keep it in the fridge.
Q: How do I stop the salad from getting soggy?
A: Cool pasta fully and cut veggies small. Dress just before serving or keep some dressing aside and add later.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Skip the mozzarella and use dairy-free mayo.
Q: Is there a low-fat option?
A: Use low-fat mayo or plain low-fat yogurt and a low-calorie Italian dressing.
Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, bell peppers, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
