Pasta salad: a beloved family classic as a side dish or main course recept

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  • Easy to prepare
  • 4 serving
  • 25 minutes
Jan, 17. 12. 2025

Quick, creamy and full of fresh vegetables – that’s exactly what this pasta salad is, and at our house it disappears from the bowl first. It’s perfect with grilled meat or schnitzels, but also works as a light packed dinner. Use seasonal vegetables and basic pantry ingredients, and in a few minutes you’re done.

For 4 serving

Ingredients

Pasta and vegetables:

Dressing:

Preparation procedure

  • Cooking the pasta: Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, briefly rinse with cold water and let drain and cool.
  • Preparing the ingredients: Peel the cucumber (to taste) and cut into small cubes. Remove the seeds from the peppers and cut into cubes, chop the tomatoes into smaller pieces, and finely chop the onion. Cut the ham and cheese into cubes roughly the same size as the vegetables.
  • Dressing: In a bowl whisk together the sour cream and mayonnaise, add the mustard (if using) and season with salt to taste.
  • Mixing the salad: Place the cooled pasta into a large bowl, add the vegetables, ham and cheese. Pour over the dressing, mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serving: Serve chilled as a standalone dish or as a side. Before serving you can sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley.

Total preparation time:

25–30 minutes (+ recommended chilling 30 minutes)

Number of servings:

4–6 servings

Extra tips:

  • For a lighter version, replace part of the mayonnaise with plain yogurt.

  • Add a handful of canned corn, olives or diced boiled eggs.

  • If preparing the salad in advance, stir in the dressing only just before serving – the pasta will absorb less and the salad will stay juicy.

Conclusion

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that will never let you down. It’s quick, filling and easily adaptable – you can use pantry leftovers or fresh produce from the garden. Store it in the fridge and you have a great cold dinner or a lunch for work. Try it once and it will become a staple of your family’s menu.

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