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A creamy, tangy, and colorful pasta salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, and casual gatherings, featuring rotini pasta and fresh vegetables tossed in a flavorful dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup peas, thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until just al dente.
  2. Drain pasta well and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
  4. Dice the cucumber.
  5. Dice the bell pepper.
  6. Finely chop the red onion.
  7. Thaw the peas if using frozen.
  8. Combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, and peas in a large mixing bowl.
  9. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl until smooth.
  10. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
  11. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.

Notes

Cook rotini pasta al dente to avoid mushiness., Rinsing pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and cools the pasta., Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley enhances flavor and presentation., Sour cream can be swapped for Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and extra protein., Chilling the salad for at least an hour improves flavor melding and richness., The salad can be customized with proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas., Veggie substitutions can include shredded carrots, zucchini, roasted corn, or artichoke hearts., Dressing variations can include lemon-olive oil vinaigrette or pesto dressing for different flavor profiles., Serve in a clear bowl and garnish with fresh herbs for an attractive presentation., The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature for a few hours, ideal for outdoor events.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mamapantry.com/pink-cadillac-pasta-salad-creamy-tangy-picnic-perfection/