There’s something about a creamy pasta salad that just screams summer, isn’t there? I can’t help but smile every time I whip up my **Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad**. This dish brings back so many fond memories of family picnics in the park, where we’d lay out a blanket, share stories, and indulge in delicious homemade food. My grandma would always take pride in her pasta salad, and I’ve tried to keep that tradition alive.
What makes this pasta salad unique is its creamy dressing, loaded with fresh veggies and delightful bites of ditalini pasta. It’s not only simple to make, but it also has that cool and refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or just on its own as a light meal. Trust me, once you give this salad a try, it will surely become a staple at your gatherings too!
What’s in Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad?
Let’s dive into what makes this salad so delicious! Here’s a quick breakdown of each ingredient:
Ditalini Pasta: The star of the show! Ditalini is a small, tube-shaped pasta that holds onto the creamy dressing wonderfully. I usually choose whole grain pasta for a bit of added fiber.
Mayonnaise: This forms the base of our creamy dressing. I prefer using a good quality mayo for that rich flavor—hellmann’s is my go-to!
Greek Yogurt: I like to mix in some Greek yogurt to lighten things up and add a bit of tanginess to the salad. Plus, we’re sneaking in some extra protein!
Celery: For that nice crunchy texture! Fresh diced celery adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the dressing.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. They add color, sweetness, and a delightful crunch to the salad.
Red Onion: Just a touch of finely diced red onion for that oniony zing! It packs a lot of flavor without being overpowering.
Frozen Peas: These little gems are sweet and pop in your mouth! Plus, they add a beautiful green hue to the salad.
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for elevating all the flavors!
Is Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health benefits and considerations of this creamy goodness!
Ditalini Pasta: As a source of carbohydrates, it provides energy for your day. Opting for whole grain ditalini pasta can also add more fiber to your diet, which is a plus!
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient offers a healthier alternative to just mayonnaise, boosting the protein content while reducing calories. It’s especially great if you’re looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Veggies: The inclusion of celery, bell peppers, and peas means you’re adding vitamins and antioxidants. They contribute to your overall health and digestion as well!
While this salad is undoubtedly tasty, it’s advisable to enjoy it in moderation since the dressing is rich and creamy. Pair it wisely, or simply savor it as a fulfilling, standalone dish.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make enough salad to serve about 6-8 people:
– 2 cups ditalini pasta
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of colors)
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you can whip this up in no time:
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool. This stops the cooking process and keeps your pasta from getting mushy.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Stir until smooth. You may want to add a pinch of salt and some pepper to taste.
3. **Mix the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced celery, bell peppers, red onion, and peas.
4. **Combine Dressing and Pasta:** Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta and veggies, mixing gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. **Chill:** Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let all those flavors meld together.
6. **Serve:** Give it a quick taste test before serving, adjusting seasoning as needed. Then, dig in and enjoy!
Make It Your Own
Here’s where you can get creative! If you want to switch things up, feel free to add in chopped herbs like dill or parsley for extra freshness. You can also toss in cooked bacon or diced rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish. You can also swap out ditalini for your favorite pasta shape—whatever floats your boat!
I truly hope you give this Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad a shot. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. Let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
