Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or your choice)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup peas (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  3. Add the cooked pasta, celery, bell pepper, onion, carrots, and peas to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Do you want me to make this a classic BBQ-style pasta salad (with pickles & cheddar) or keep it light and fresh (with yogurt & herbs)?

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