Looking for a refreshing dish that perfectly balances creamy and tangy flavors? Look no further! Our Creamy and Tangy Pasta Salad is not just any side dish; it's a delightful explosion of taste that will elevate your next picnic, barbecue, or family gathering. With vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a luscious dressing, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a bowl of this Italian-inspired goodness that serves four, making it the ideal choice for sharing. Get ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds—let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the creamy dressing.
- Prepare the vegetables by halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber, and finely chopping the red onion.
- Add the prepared vegetables to the cooled pasta in the mixing bowl.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, be sure to follow the package instructions closely. Stirring occasionally will help prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Cool Quickly: Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking not only stops the cooking process but also helps maintain the pasta's firmness, ensuring a delightful bite in every forkful.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, olives, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor and color of your salad.
- Dress It Up: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the dressing or experimenting with different types of vinegar.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, give your salad a quick stir and taste it. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the flavors.
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect option for meal prep or gatherings. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
