Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
This Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is fresh, creamy, flavorful, and packed with classic Italian-inspired ingredients in every bite. Made with rotini pasta, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, parmesan cheese, olives, and a creamy Italian dressing, this easy pasta salad recipe is perfect for BBQs, cookouts, potlucks, meal prep, summer gatherings, and easy family dinners.
It’s the perfect combination of a classic Italian pasta salad and a rich creamy pasta salad, making it hearty, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light meal, this creamy Italian pasta salad is always a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy make-ahead recipe
- Creamy flavorful dressing
- Perfect for BBQs and potlucks
- Loaded with fresh ingredients
- Great for meal prep
- Family-friendly side dish
Here’s What You Need
For the Pasta Salad
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
How To Make Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cooled.
Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and pepperoni.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, parmesan cheese, olives, cucumber, onion, and pepperoni.
Pour the creamy dressing over the top.
Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Serve cold.
Tips For The Best Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
- Rinse the pasta with cold water to cool it quickly
- Chill before serving for the best flavor
- Use fresh mozzarella for creamy texture
- Toss with extra dressing before serving if needed
- Rotini pasta holds dressing perfectly
Easy Add-Ins
- Banana peppers
- Salami
- Bell peppers
- Fresh basil
- Spinach
- Chickpeas
- Sun dried tomatoes
What To Serve With Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
- Burgers
- BBQ chicken
- Sandwiches
- Hot dogs
- Pizza
- Grilled steak
- Summer cookout meals
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir in a little extra dressing before serving leftovers if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
What pasta works best?
Rotini works best because it holds onto the creamy dressing well.
Can I make this without meat?
Absolutely. Simply leave out the pepperoni for a vegetarian version.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is creamy, fresh, flavorful, and packed with classic Italian-inspired ingredients everyone loves. With rotini pasta, fresh mozzarella, parmesan cheese, tomatoes, olives, and creamy dressing, this easy pasta salad recipe is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, meal prep, summer gatherings, and family dinners. It’s one of those easy side dishes people always come back for seconds of.
