Pasta salad is a classic summer barbecue favorite, often made with cooked pasta, fresh veggies, and a creamy mayo or mustard-based dressing. But why not get creative and elevate your pasta salad this season? Here are 5 easy and inventive pasta salad dressing recipes to try this summer!
CREAMY ITALIAN DRESSING
Whisk together 1/4 cup mayo, 3 tbsp white wine vinegar, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp sour cream, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp dried basil, oregano, and thyme, 1/4 tsp rosemary, and 1/2 tsp salt.
Pasta Suggestion: Rotini, black olives, diced tomatoes, pepperoni, and mozzarella.
RANCH DRESSING
Combine 1/3 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, 2 tbsp fresh parsley and chives, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 tsp salt.
Pasta Suggestion: Macaroni, crumbled bacon, red peppers, and Parmesan.
GARLIC DRESSING
Whisk 2/3 cup olive oil, 1/3 cup red wine vinegar, juice of 1 lemon, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.
Pasta Suggestion: Mini shells, cherry tomatoes, ricotta, and capers.
MEDITERRANEAN DRESSING
Mix 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup feta, 1 diced roma tomato, and 1 tsp dried oregano.
Pasta Suggestion: Orzo, diced tomatoes, and kalamata olives.
ASIAN DRESSING
Combine 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1.5 tsp grated ginger, 1 tsp sriracha, and salt and pepper to taste.
Pasta Suggestion: Soba noodles, zucchini, mushrooms, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Each of these dressings adds a unique twist to your pasta salad, perfect for any summer gathering!
