Description
This Creamy Pasta Salad is the ultimate refreshing side dish, perfect for any gathering from summer picnics to backyard barbecues. With its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy dressing, this dish is not just a side but a flavorful experience. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it the ideal option for busy days or last-minute invites. The balance of tangy and sweet flavors will leave your guests coming back for more. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve alongside grilled meats or as a satisfying standalone dish. Prepare ahead of time and let the flavors meld beautifully in the fridge for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–16 ounces Garden rotini pasta (cooked)
- ½ Medium red onion (minced)
- 1 Cucumber (diced)
- ½ Pint grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1 Medium yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 3 tablespoons Italian vinaigrette dressing
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 + 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon White sugar
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Italian vinaigrette dressing, Cajun seasoning, ground black pepper, and white sugar; mix well.
- Add the cooled pasta and vegetables to the dressing mixture. Stir gently until evenly coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for 1-3 hours.
- Serve chilled as a delightful side dish or on its own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg