Save A creamy festive pasta salad loaded with vibrant veggies sharp cheeses and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks.
This pasta salad quickly became a holiday staple at our family parties due to its rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) rotini or fusilli pasta
- Dressing: 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for best creaminess), ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp honey, 1 clove garlic minced, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Cheeses: 1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese diced, ½ cup (50 g) crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan
- Vegetables & Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes halved, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 cup (120 g) English cucumber diced, ½ cup (60 g) red onion finely chopped, ½ cup (60 g) pitted Kalamata olives halved, ¼ cup (30 g) sun-dried tomatoes chopped, ¼ cup (10 g) fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together Greek yogurt mayonnaise Dijon mustard lemon juice honey garlic salt and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold in cheddar feta parmesan cherry tomatoes red bell pepper cucumber red onion olives sun-dried tomatoes and parsley.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Step 6:
- Stir before serving and garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Save This dish has become a treasured family favorite especially during festive holiday gatherings.
Notes
Add pine nuts or toasted walnuts for crunch
Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Chefs knife, Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese Greek yogurt mayonnaise), Eggs (mayonnaise), Wheat (pasta unless using gluten-free). May contain Tree nuts if added as optional. Always check labels if you have severe allergies.
Save This pasta salad is a festive and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to brighten any holiday table.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Rotini or fusilli are ideal as their spirals hold the creamy dressing well, but any short pasta will work.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
- → Is there a way to add more protein?
Adding diced cooked chicken or turkey boosts protein without altering the flavor profile significantly.
- → How can I make the salad crunchier?
Incorporate pine nuts or toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon complements the salad's tangy and creamy flavors.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary needs?
Whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta can replace regular pasta, and adjust cheeses if dairy restrictions apply.