Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (rotini, penne, or macaroni)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.
- Mix & Coat: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Add extra crunch with chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Best served chilled for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling & Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 10g
Keywords: creamy pasta salad, easy pasta salad, BBQ side dish