creamy summer pasta salad

Summertime is the perfect time to whip up a delicious, light pasta salad. Whether you’re throwing a summer BBQ or looking for a quick, no-fuss lunch, pasta salad is the way to go. Our creamy summer pasta salad recipe is packed full of flavor and texture, thanks to a combination of creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and savory cheese. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Read on to learn how to make this summer classic.

Ingredients

This creamy summer pasta salad recipe calls for the following ingredients:

8 ounces of your favorite short pasta, cooked according to package instructions
2 cups of peeled and diced cucumber
1 cup of diced bell pepper (any color)
1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar
2 cloves of minced garlic
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

To make this delicious creamy summer pasta salad, begin by preparing the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water and set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and parsley. Add the cooled pasta and toss to combine.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to combine. Serve chilled.

FAQs

How long does this pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

This pasta salad will last in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can this pasta salad be frozen?

This pasta salad should not be frozen as the mayonnaise will separate when thawed.

Are there any variations to this recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted. Try adding cooked shrimp, cubed ham, or cooked bacon to the salad for extra flavor and texture.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the pasta salad, cover, and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days before serving.