Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe
Guide or Summary：Ingredients You'll NeedStep-by-Step PreparationTips for the Perfect Mayonnaise Pasta SaladIf you're on the hunt for a delicious and crowd-p……
Guide or Summary：
If you're on the hunt for a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, look no further than the Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe. This dish is a surefire hit, combining the smooth, tangy flavor of mayonnaise with perfectly cooked pasta and a medley of fresh, vibrant vegetables. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make the Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of diced celery
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial for a perfect Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe as it ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn't become mushy.
2. **Prepare the Dressing**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Mix the Salad**: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss the pasta until it is evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Next, add the diced celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded carrots, bell peppers, and chopped parsley. Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
4. **Chill and Serve**: For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become even more delicious. When you're ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Tips for the Perfect Mayonnaise Pasta Salad
- **Choose the Right Pasta**: The type of pasta you use can make a big difference in the texture of your salad. Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni are ideal as they hold up well to the dressing and mix-ins.
- **Fresh Ingredients**: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Crisp celery, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy bell peppers add a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing.
- **Chill Time**: Don't skip the chilling step. Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors to develop and ensures the salad is refreshingly cool when served.
- **Customizable Add-Ins**: Feel free to customize your Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe with additional ingredients like diced ham, shredded cheese, olives, or even hard-boiled eggs. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, the Ultimate Creamy Mayonnaise Pasta Salad Recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a tasty side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress. With its creamy dressing, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a recipe that you'll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Enjoy!