“`html

If you’ve been searching for a fresh and irresistible side dish that truly shines at every gathering, look no further than this Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful union of zesty Italian dressing and smooth mayonnaise that wraps around tender rotini pasta and crisp vegetables, creating a perfect harmony of bold and refreshing flavors. Every bite bursts with vibrant colors and textures, making it not just a salad, but a celebration in a bowl that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven white bowls and plates arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing a different ingredient. From top left to right, there is a white bowl filled with cooked curly pasta of light orange color, a white bowl with bright red cherry tomatoes, a glass jar with a creamy light yellow sauce with seasonings, a white bowl with dark sliced olives, a white plate with several thin round slices of salami showing a mix of pink and white specks, a glass bowl with small white cubes of cheese, and a white bowl with bright green chopped cucumber pieces. Two fresh green onions with white bulbs are placed on the left side of the bowls. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s the pasta providing a satisfying bite, the mayo and Italian dressing creating that luxurious creaminess, or the fresh vegetables adding brightness and crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleaser:

2 cups rotini pasta (uncooked): The spiral shape holds onto the dressing beautifully so every forkful is flavorful.
½ cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and a creamy texture that ties everything together.
⅓ cup Italian dressing: Infuses the salad with herby, tangy notes essential for an authentic Italian flair.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle punch of savory depth without overpowering the freshness.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of aromatic herbs to enhance the Mediterranean profile.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the creaminess perfectly.
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursts of juicy sweetness and vibrant red color.
½ cup cucumber, diced: Provides a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy dressing.
⅓ cup red onion, finely diced: Brings a mild sharpness and a lovely pop of purple.
½ cup mozzarella pearls or cubed cheese: Adds a creamy, chewy texture and mild dairy flavor that Italian salads are famous for.

How to Make Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking 2 cups of rotini pasta in boiling salted water, following the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, which is key for that perfect salad texture.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ⅓ cup Italian dressing, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. This creates a luscious, flavorful base that will coat every ingredient in deliciousness.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Veggies

Add the drained pasta, ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes, ½ cup diced cucumber, and ⅓ cup finely diced red onion into the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to ensure that every twist and turn of the pasta is embraced by the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Toss

Finally, fold in ½ cup mozzarella pearls or cubed cheese, adding that signature creamy bite. Toss everything again just enough to evenly coat the salad without breaking the delicate ingredients.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Pop the salad into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to marry beautifully and the salad to chill perfectly so it’s refreshingly cool when served.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with a pasta salad made of light beige bowtie pasta mixed with sliced black olives, chopped red onions, and halved bright red cherry tomatoes. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top and mixed inside. A wooden spoon is placed inside the bowl, with a woman's hand holding it from the top right. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the salad’s appearance and flavor by sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. If you want a touch of elegance, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or add a few crunchy pepperoncini slices for a savory surprise.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, Italian sausages, or even a simple Margherita pizza. It’s an excellent side that complements both lighter meals and hearty main courses, adding a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in a rustic wooden bowl for a cozy, homestyle vibe or in individual clear cups for a fun picnic presentation. You can also layer it with fresh greens in a large glass trifle bowl to showcase all the vibrant colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better with time, but the salad is best enjoyed within this window for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, this Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe is not ideal for freezing. Freezing can change the texture of both the dairy and the crisp ingredients, making the salad less enjoyable.

Reheating

This salad is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If it’s been stored in the fridge, give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding dressings, you can swap with penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan version, and replace mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit it altogether; the Italian dressing can also be chosen vegan-friendly.

What can I add for extra protein?

Chopped grilled chicken, pepperoni slices, or even beans like chickpeas work beautifully to boost protein and make the salad more filling.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Definitely! It actually benefits from chilling for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend. You can prepare it up to a day in advance for convenience.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Rinsing the pasta with cold water after cooking is key to stopping the cooking process and preventing sogginess. Also, keep the salad chilled until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves bold flavors wrapped in a smooth, creamy coating paired with fresh veggies. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing lunch, or just craving a bright, satisfying side dish, this salad never disappoints. Go ahead, give it a try—your taste buds will thank you for it!

“`