Vegetarian Pasta Salad Cold: Easy Summer Recipe
A refreshing vegetarian pasta salad cold packed with fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and bold summer flavors. Perfect for quick meals, hot days, and easy make-ahead lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 lb short pasta rotini, fusilli, or farfalle
- 2 cups grilled or roasted corn
- 1/2 cup fresh basil torn
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup diced cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 head romaine lettuce shredded
- For the Dressing:
- 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup cotija or feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 –2 garlic cloves grated
- 1 tbsp fresh chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Chili Butter:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 –2 tsp cayenne pepper
- For Lime Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Cook Pasta ; Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Dressing ; In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, chives, and cheese. Season to taste.
- Combine Ingredients ; Add pasta to dressing. Mix with corn, lettuce, herbs, cheese, and avocado. Toss gently.
- Make Chili Butter ; Melt butter, add spices, cook briefly until fragrant.
- Prepare Lime Dressing ; Mix mayonnaise with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
- Serve ; Top with chili butter and lime dressing. Serve cold or slightly chilled.
Notes
- Works great as a main dish or side
- Perfect for meal prep and cookouts
- Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables