Print

Creamy Italian Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Quick and Delicious Recipe

A large bowl of Creamy Italian Pasta Salad with fresh vegetables and salami
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A creamy and flavorful Italian pasta salad loaded with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or preferred shape)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup salami or pepperoni, cubed (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp Italian dressing
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions

2. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool

3. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and slice olives

4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, and salami or pepperoni if using

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper

6. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated

7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld

8. Before serving, fold in grated Parmesan cheese and toss lightly

Notes

For best flavor, chill the salad longer before serving

You can make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the meat

Add extra vegetables like spinach or artichokes for variation

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Nutrition

Find it online: https://paulakitchen.com/creamy-italian-pasta-salad/