Description
Discover the best Creamy Pasta Salad recipe featuring al dente rotini, sweet peas, and savory smoked beef tossed in a rich mayonnaise and sour cream dressing with a hint of lemon. This easy, crowd‑pleasing side dish is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. Ready in minutes, it offers a balanced blend of creamy texture and fresh flavor, making it a go‑to favorite for any occasion. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs, for a cool, smoky bite that guests love now! Today!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup smoked beef, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, drain and rinse with cold water.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl combine pasta, peas, and smoked beef.
- Pour dressing over mixture and toss until coated.
- Chill 30 minutes, garnish with herbs, and serve.
Notes
- For a lighter version
- replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Creamy Pasta Salad, easy pasta salad recipe, summer side dish, smoked beef recipes, quick pasta side, creamy salad dressing, party appetizer ideas, make ahead pasta salad