The sun is shining, and the fresh, colorful ingredients of a chef salad pasta salad beckon from the kitchen counter. This Simple and Delicious Chef Salad Pasta Salad is ready in just under 30 minutes and boasts a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. The balance of fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy dressing makes this dish a favorite at gatherings and picnics.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. It’s an excellent side dish but can also stand alone as a light meal. Plus, it can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, crunchy vegetables add a refreshing texture.
- The cheesy pasta adds heartiness to the dish.
- It’s quick to assemble, taking under 30 minutes.
- The dressing ties everything together for a creamy finish.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious pasta salad.
For the Salad
- 2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup deli ham, cubed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Deli ham can be replaced with turkey.
- Try a dairy-free mayo for a vegan version.
- Use seasonal vegetables for variety.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
How to Make It
Mixing this pasta salad is a breeze; just follow these simple steps!
Boil
- Boil the pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Combine
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, ham, cheddar cheese, red onion, and green bell pepper.
Whisk
- Whisk the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Toss
- Toss everything together: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill
- Chill in the fridge: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Store It
Fridge: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, it doesn’t freeze well due to pasta texture.
Reheat: Not necessary; serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for Best Results
- Always rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking.
- Increase the veggie quantity for more crunch.
- Add in olives for an extra burst of flavor.
- Adjust dressing ingredients to suit your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Serve at summer potlucks or barbecues.
- Enjoy as a refreshing lunch on warm days.
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