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Creamy Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Recipe for Summer

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A classic creamy pasta salad loaded with ham, cheddar cheese, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • ¼ cup milk (or half-and-half)
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 cup cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup celery, finely chopped
  • ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • ½ cup black olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Make the Creamy Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk (or half-and-half), white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), Dijon mustard, sugar (or honey), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  3. Prepare the Add-Ins: Dice ham, cube cheddar cheese, finely chop red onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Slice black olives and chop fresh parsley. Place all add-ins in a separate bowl.
  4. Assemble the Pasta Salad: Add the diced ham, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, chopped celery, chopped green bell pepper, and sliced black olives to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
  5. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta and add-ins.
  6. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and add-ins are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pasta mushy.
  7. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Pasta: Rotini, penne, or farfalle work best. Cook al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Dressing: Adjust seasonings to your preference. Add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or spices for flavor.
  • Add-Ins: Customize with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or cheeses.
  • Red Onion: Soak in cold water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor if desired.
  • Chilling: Chilling is crucial for the flavors to develop.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/creamy-pasta-salad/