The creamy ditalini pasta salad is a perfect summer side that balances tender pasta with fresh, vibrant vegetables and a tangy-herb dressing. It’s a breeze to throw together and only gets better after resting in the fridge—ideal for picnics, potlucks, or light dinners.
This dish celebrates simplicity and freshness. Juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumber bring brightness, while peas and bell pepper add texture. The creamy lemon-Dijon dressing ties everything together—refreshing, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups ditalini pasta
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cucumber, diced
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1/2 red bell pepper, diced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
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3/4 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
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In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Add cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and peas to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
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Fold in fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chilling Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: approx. 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Introduction to Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad
Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of classic comfort and fresh flavors, making it a perfect dish for virtually any occasion. With its short, tubular pasta that holds creamy dressing in every bite, this salad is both rich and refreshing. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, lunch prep, or as a colorful side dish at dinner, this salad balances creamy textures with crunchy vegetables, offering a satisfying and vibrant experience.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While traditionally made with a mayonnaise-based dressing and crisp vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red bell peppers, you can easily adapt it to fit your dietary needs or seasonal preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, BBQ, potluck, or simply craving a cool and creamy bite, this dish brings everyone to the table with its well-rounded flavors and visually appealing presentation.
What Makes Ditalini Pasta Unique?
Ditalini, which translates to “little thimbles” in Italian, is a short, tube-shaped pasta commonly used in soups like minestrone, but it also shines in cold pasta salads. Its small size and tubular shape make it perfect for catching and holding onto creamy dressings, enhancing every bite. Unlike larger pasta varieties that can sometimes overpower the mix-ins, ditalini complements the other ingredients without stealing the spotlight.
When cooked al dente and rinsed with cold water, ditalini creates the perfect base for salads. It stays firm, doesn’t get mushy easily, and pairs well with a variety of vegetables and dressings. Its texture makes every mouthful interesting, allowing a uniform distribution of flavors.
Why This Creamy Salad Stands Out
Many pasta salads lean heavily on vinaigrettes or oil-based dressings. While delicious, they don’t offer the same indulgent mouthfeel that a creamy dressing provides. This Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad uses a balanced combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic to create a dressing that is tangy, smooth, and slightly zesty.
The freshness of the raw vegetables contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dressing. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch, and red onions add a subtle bite. The peas not only add a pop of color but also a touch of sweetness and texture that enhances the overall appeal of the dish.
Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals and Entertaining
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how well it holds up over time. In fact, the flavors develop even more if the salad is allowed to chill for a few hours—or overnight—before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or preparing ahead for an event.
It’s also a perfect addition to a potluck table. Unlike leafy green salads that may wilt or lose their structure over time, this pasta salad maintains its integrity and appeal. It can be served cold or at room temperature, and it travels well, which is a bonus for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Customizing Your Ditalini Pasta Salad
The core components of the salad are easily adaptable. You can add or substitute ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or what’s in season. Some popular additions include:
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Protein: Grilled chicken, chopped bacon, tuna, or chickpeas.
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Cheese: Cubes of cheddar, crumbled feta, or mozzarella pearls.
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Fresh herbs: Basil, dill, or cilantro can give a fresh twist to the flavor profile.
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Spice: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few jalapeño slices for heat.
For a more health-conscious version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise. This reduces the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture and adding a bit of protein.
A Dish That Appeals Across All Ages
Kids and adults alike are drawn to the bright colors and balanced textures of this salad. For children, it’s an approachable way to enjoy vegetables thanks to the creamy dressing that coats every bite. For adults, the complex flavor and ease of preparation make it a repeat favorite.
You can also serve this salad as a complete meal by adding a protein or use it as a complementary side to grilled meats, sandwiches, or vegetarian mains. Its bright and creamy characteristics can lift even the simplest of meals.
Seasonal and Holiday Flexibility
This dish isn’t just for summer. It works well in spring and fall, too, with minor adjustments. In the colder months, consider adding roasted root vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes for warmth and depth. In the spring, go light with herbs like dill and peas as the primary green.
For holiday gatherings, the red and green of the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers make it visually festive. Serve it alongside turkey or ham for a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday foods.
Storage and Leftovers
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this pasta salad stays fresh for up to 3 days. Because it contains dairy-based ingredients, it’s important to keep it chilled and avoid letting it sit out at room temperature for extended periods. If you’re prepping it in advance, consider leaving out any watery ingredients like cucumber until just before serving to maintain texture.
If the salad seems to dry out after sitting, simply stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the creamy consistency.
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t overcook the pasta. Ditalini should be cooked al dente to maintain its structure when mixed with dressing and veggies.
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Cool the pasta before adding dressing. Hot pasta can absorb the dressing too quickly and become gummy.
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Use fresh herbs. They make a significant difference in elevating the flavor and aroma.
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Add salt gradually. Depending on the mayonnaise and mustard used, the dressing may already contain a good amount of sodium.
Conclusion: A Salad Worth Sharing
Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad is more than just a side—it’s a centerpiece of fresh flavor, vibrant color, and balanced textures. It brings together creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements in a way that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a reliable make-ahead dish or a home cook wanting to impress at a potluck, this salad has you covered.
With its flexibility, easy customization, and universal appeal, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. From weekday lunches to special celebrations, this pasta salad proves that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand.