Summer is here, which means it’s time to break out the pasta salad recipes! There’s nothing quite like a creamy, dreamy pasta salad to satisfy your cravings on a warm day. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick and easy lunch, these 18 delicious creamy pasta salad recipes are sure to please.
From classic combinations like macaroni and celery to more adventurous pairings like shrimp and cilantro, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. And the best part? Each one is packed with fresh flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
So why wait? Dive into our collection of creamy pasta salad recipes below and get ready to make this summer one to remember! [insert list of 18 recipes]
Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad with Celery and Red Onion
Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad with Celery and Red Onion
A timeless favorite that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a comforting side dish. This creamy macaroni salad is elevated by the addition of crunchy celery and sweet red onion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as parsley, dill, and chives)
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, celery, and red onion.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the dressing mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Combine the pasta mixture with the vegetable mixture and toss gently.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad with Bacon and Corn
A creamy and refreshing pasta salad that combines the flavors of avocado, ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and sweet corn.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, corn kernels, and crumbled bacon.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and refreshing pasta salad perfect for potlucks or picnics, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the brightness of garlic, and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup creamy Italian dressing
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, creamy Italian dressing, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the creaminess of blue cheese dressing, all tossed together with pasta and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until well coated.
3. Add cooked pasta, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices to the bowl. Toss until everything is well combined.
4. Crumbling blue cheese into small pieces, add it to the salad and toss gently to distribute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Ranch Pasta Salad with Cucumbers and Dill
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt ranch dressing, the crunch of cucumbers, and the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning until smooth.
3. Add chopped fresh dill and stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta and sliced cucumbers to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Mayo Pasta Salad with Shrimp and Cilantro
This refreshing pasta salad combines the spiciness of sriracha mayo with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a tangy cilantro dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through. Set aside with pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sriracha sauce until smooth.
4. Add chopped cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mayo mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and cherry tomatoes (if using) in a large bowl. Pour in the spicy mayo dressing and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy – creamy pesto sauce, al dente pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s also great as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Pasta Salad with Sour Cream and Chives
A twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the creaminess of sour cream and the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 large baked potatoes, cooled
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: bacon bits or crumbled cooked chicken for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Dice the cooled baked potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced potatoes, sour cream, chives, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add bacon bits or crumbled chicken for added flavor.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (pasta cooking time) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Tangy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad with Smoked Salmon
Brighten up your summer gatherings with this refreshing pasta salad featuring smoked salmon, tangy lemon, and fresh dill. This flavorful combination is perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1/2 cup cooked smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked pasta, smoked salmon, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (excluding pasta cooking time)
Creamy Chipotle Lime Pasta Salad with Black Beans and Corn
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of chipotle lime dressing, the sweetness of corn, and the earthiness of black beans, all tossed together with pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tbsp. chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp. honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, lime juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, black beans, corn kernels, and chipotle-lime dressing. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad with Peas and Cheddar Cheese
This creamy pasta salad combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the brightness of fresh peas, all tied together with a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks or quick lunches.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, frozen peas, and ranch dressing. Toss until well combined.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing pasta salad, featuring tangy feta cheese and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until well combined.
4. Pour the creamy feta dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Southwestern Pasta Salad with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
Get ready to spice up your salad game! This Southwestern Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy creamy dressing that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing (recipe below)
Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Pasta Salad with Creamy Mustard Dressing
A deliciously satisfying side dish or light lunch, this broccoli and cheddar pasta salad is a flavorful twist on a classic combination. With the tanginess of mustard dressing, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup creamy mustard dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli over medium heat until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and grated cheddar cheese.
4. Drizzle creamy mustard dressing over the top and toss until well coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad with Spinach and Artichokes
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or a quick lunch. The combination of creamy sauce, tender spinach, and savory sun-dried tomatoes creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichoke hearts to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl; toss again until well coated with the creamy sauce.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbed Buttermilk Pasta Salad with Radishes and Scallions
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering. The tangy buttermilk dressing, combined with the peppery flavor of radishes and scallions, will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp. buttermilk
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp. honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large radish, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, dill, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, radish slices, scallions, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
4. Pour the buttermilk dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Cajun Pasta Salad with Andouille Sausage and Bell Peppers
This hearty pasta salad combines the spicy flavors of Andouille sausage, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning with a creamy dressing for a delicious twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. sour cream
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, mayonnaise, sour cream, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad with Creamy Coconut Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the spicy kick of peanuts, all wrapped up in a delicious noodle package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, chopped cilantro, and creamy dressing. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds this summer! Our collection of creamy pasta salad recipes has got you covered. From classic combinations like macaroni with celery and red onion, to bold twists like buffalo chicken with blue cheese dressing, there’s something for everyone. Discover 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine the comfort of pasta with the freshness of seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a family gathering, these creamy pasta salads are sure to please.