Save it
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.