Description
Discover our Creamy Pasta Salad, a crowd‑pleasing side that mixes al dente rotini with sweet peas and smoky smoked beef, all tossed in a rich mayonnaise‑based dressing. This quick‑prep dish delivers bright colors, a velvety texture, and a balanced flavor that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight meals. Follow the simple steps for a creamy, satisfying salad that stays fresh in the fridge and impresses guests every time Serve chilled, topped with parsley for a bright finish that pleases.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 4 ounces smoked beef, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rotini until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta, peas, and smoked beef in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version
- add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing. The salad can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor development.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Creamy Pasta Salad, easy pasta salad, creamy pasta salad recipe, side dish ideas, summer potluck recipes, quick vegetarian side, summer salads, rotini salad, how to make pasta salad, best pasta side dish