Save to Pinterest A creamy, festive pasta salad loaded with vibrant veggies, sharp cheeses, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing&mdashperfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks.
This salad quickly became a holiday favorite in my family&mdasheveryone loves the tangy Greek yogurt dressing and colorful mix of ingredients.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) rotini or fusilli pasta
- Dressing: 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for best creaminess) 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise 2 tbsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp honey 1 clove garlic, minced 1⁄2 tsp salt 1⁄4 tsp black pepper
- Cheeses: 1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese, diced 1⁄2 cup (50 g) crumbled feta cheese 1⁄2 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 1⁄2 cup (60 g) red onion, finely chopped 1⁄2 cup (60 g) pitted Kalamata olives, halved 1⁄4 cup (30 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 1⁄4 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 to Pinterest My family always gathers around this salad at holiday parties, sharing stories as we enjoy each colorful bite.
Optional Additions
For extra protein, consider adding diced cooked chicken or turkey. Pine nuts or toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this salad with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.
Tips for Prep Ahead
Prepare the pasta and dressing a day before, then fold in the veggies and cheeses just before serving for maximum freshness.
Save to Pinterest This pasta salad is sure to brighten any gathering with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, rotini or fusilli work best for holding the dressing, but penne or farfalle are good alternatives.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse cooked pasta under cold water after draining to cool and stop cooking, which helps keep it separate.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
Plain full-fat yogurt or a creamy sour cream can be used, though it may alter the tanginess slightly.
- → How long should the salad chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop a balanced taste.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a few hours ahead for best flavor, but add fresh herbs just before serving for a bright finish.
- → What cheeses add the most flavor in this dish?
Sharp cheddar and crumbled feta provide a good tang and richness, while parmesan adds a nutty depth.