This Creamy Pasta Salad with Summer Sausage combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and diced summer sausage with a rich and tangy dressing. The creamy blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard coats every bite, making it a satisfying dish for summer picnics or weeknight dinners. Customize with your favorite ingredients like pickled jalapeños or shredded carrots for an extra burst of flavor. This salad is best served chilled and makes for a refreshing side or a complete meal on its own.
This Creamy Pasta Salad with Summer Sausage is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal. Packed with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a hit!
INGREDIENTS
- For the Salad:
- Rotini or penne pasta: 2 cups, uncooked, for a hearty base.
- Summer sausage: 1 cup, diced, adds a savory, smoky flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved, for a burst of freshness.
- Cucumber: 1 cup, diced, adds a cool, crisp texture.
- Red bell pepper: 1/2 cup, diced, for a sweet and colorful crunch.
- Black olives (optional): 1/2 cup, sliced, adds a briny touch.
- Red onion: 1/2 cup, diced, for a bit of sharpness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup, or use a cheese blend of your choice, for a creamy element.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): 1/4 cup, chopped, for a fresh herbaceous finish.
- For the Creamy Dressing:
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup, provides a rich and creamy base.
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup, adds a tangy, smooth texture.
- Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons, for a hint of spice.
- Red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar): 1 tablespoon, adds acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Honey: 1 tablespoon, for a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the savory notes.
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon, for an herby taste.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, adjust for seasoning.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced summer sausage, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives (if using), red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the salad to chill.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this pasta salad chilled for the best flavor and texture, especially during warm weather.
- Pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal at barbecues or picnics.
- Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to refresh the dressing.
- For a creamier texture, add a little extra mayonnaise or sour cream before serving if the pasta has absorbed some of the dressing.
Helpful Notes
- For added crunch, try mixing in some chopped celery or bell peppers just before serving.
- If you want a lighter dressing, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- This salad is very versatile—add your favorite ingredients like chopped dill pickles, shredded carrots, or even some cooked bacon for extra flavor.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using freshly grated cheese for a creamier and more flavorful pasta salad.
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests tossing the pasta with a little olive oil after cooking to prevent sticking if you need to prepare it in advance.
- Chef Jamie Oliver advises letting the salad sit for at least an hour in the fridge to let the flavors meld and develop before serving.