Description
This creamy pasta salad blends tender macaroni with crunchy celery, sweet carrots, and bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty mayo-Dijon dressing. Chill before serving for a refreshing, make-ahead side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1⁄2 cup diced celery
- 1⁄2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1⁄2 cup shredded carrots
- 1⁄4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1⁄2 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)
- 2 boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or dill)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and stir until it is well coated.
4. Add the diced celery, red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and red onion to the pasta mixture. Mix everything together gently.
5. If using, fold in the thawed peas and chopped boiled eggs for added texture and flavor.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
For a creamy twist, you can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt.
This salad is perfect for potlucks and picnics, as it holds up well when chilled.
You can customize this salad with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bacon, or olives.
The pasta salad can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
Adjust the seasoning to taste – add more salt or pepper as needed.
For extra crunch, try adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 3g