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Creamy Pasta Salad

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Creamy Pasta Salad is a cool and refreshing side dish made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, and BBQs.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Add cooled pasta, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and carrots to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy dressing.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise.
  • Feel free to add extras like peas, bacon bits, or diced pickles.
  • Make a day ahead for even better flavor.

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