Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
The Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe for Any Occasion

The Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe for Any Occasion


  • Author: Helen
  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian-optional

Description

A comforting creamy pasta salad with al dente pasta, halal meat, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. Balances textures and classic Italian-inspired flavors in a crowd-pleasing format.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound (16 oz) pasta (Rotini, Penne, or Farfalle)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup Italian dressing
1/2 cup halal beef slices (substitute for pork-based salami)
1 cup cubed provolone cheese
1/2 cup sliced black olives
2 cups chopped red bell peppers
2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
1 small red onion, sliced
2 cups baby spinach
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste


Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, Italian dressing, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt to form the dressing.
Add cooked pasta, halal beef, provolone cheese, olives, red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and baby spinach to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Notes

Substitute halal beef for traditional pork-based salami to meet dietary restrictions.
For a vegetarian option, replace meat with marinated artichoke hearts.
Dress salad just before serving for freshest texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 12
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: Chill
  • Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg