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Creamy Crowd-Pleasing Pasta Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Summer Side Dish

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A quick and fuss-free creamy pasta salad perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks, featuring a tangy dressing and crunchy veggies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) dry elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill, garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of dry elbow macaroni or rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup (180 ml) mayonnaise, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Finely dice 1 stalk of celery and thinly slice 2 green onions. Chop about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs if using.
  5. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.
  6. Fold in the chopped celery, green onions, and optional herbs. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  8. Before serving, stir the salad gently and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Do not skip rinsing the pasta to prevent mushiness. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Adjust seasoning after chilling as salt can mute. Use folding motion to mix to avoid breaking pasta. Optional add-ins include fresh herbs, garlic powder, or protein like chicken or bacon.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, summer side dish, easy pasta salad, 5-ingredient pasta salad, crowd-pleaser, BBQ side dish

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/creamy-crowd-pleasing-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-summer-side-dish/