Pasta Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing

A vibrant bowl of pasta salad captures the essence of summer gatherings, with colors and textures that invite sharing. This Pasta Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing takes only about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and delightful side dish or main attraction at your next barbecue. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy dressing creates a satisfying dish that’s both cool and refreshing.

This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress guests at a potluck or family picnic. It’s best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The blanched asparagus adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color.
• Creamy mayonnaise and sour cream create a rich, luscious dressing.
• Fresh corn contributes sweetness and juiciness to every bite.
• Parmesan cheese elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully.

What You’ll Need

Gather these delicious ingredients to make your salad shine.

For the Salad

• 1/2 lb dried fusilli pasta
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato, cut into thin strips
• 2 ears fresh corn on the cob, blanched, cold shocked, and stripped from cob
• 1 lb asparagus, blanched, cold shocked, and cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 large garlic clove, finely grated
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Fusilli can be replaced with rotini or penne.
• Use canned corn if fresh is unavailable.
• Store-bought or homemade sun-dried tomatoes work well.
• Any hard cheese can replace parmesan.

How to Make It

Prepare this delicious pasta salad in a few simple steps.

Cook the pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and rinse under cold water. This will cool it down and prevent sticking.

Prep the veggies

While the pasta cooks, prepare your vegetables by blanching and cold shocking the asparagus and corn as needed. Once done, mix into the cooled pasta.

Combine the dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, grated garlic, and parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Mix everything together

Fold the dressing gently into the pasta and vegetable mixture until evenly coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful.

Chill and serve

Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, dressing may separate upon thawing.
Reheat: Not necessary; serve chilled.

Tips for Best Results

• Use quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the cheese.
• Make sure to rinse the pasta thoroughly to cool it down quickly.
• For a zestier dressing, add more lemon juice to taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve as a side dish at barbecues or picnics.
• Perfect for meal prep lunches throughout the week.