Save A creamy, festive pasta salad loaded with vibrant veggies, sharp cheeses, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing—perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks.
This pasta salad has quickly become a holiday favorite in my family, always requested at every gathering.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) rotini or fusilli pasta
- Dressing: 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for best creaminess), ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp honey, 1 clove garlic, minced, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Cheeses: 1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese, diced, ½ cup (50 g) crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan
- Vegetables & Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 1 cup (120 g) English cucumber, diced, ½ cup (60 g) red onion, finely chopped, ½ cup (60 g) pitted Kalamata olives, halved, ¼ cup (30 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, ¼ cup (10 g) fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold in cheddar, feta, parmesan, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Step 6:
- Stir before serving, and garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Save Sharing this salad at family dinners always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
Notes
Add pine nuts or toasted walnuts for crunch. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large mixing bowl, whisk, chef's knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise), Eggs (mayonnaise), Wheat (pasta unless using gluten-free). May contain: Tree nuts if added as optional. Always check labels if you have severe allergies.
Save This salad can be prepared a day ahead to let flavors meld beautifully for your holiday feast.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of pasta works best?
Rotini or fusilli are ideal for their twisted shapes that hold the dressing well, but other short pasta types can be used.
- → Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
Full-fat plain Greek yogurt is recommended for creaminess, but sour cream or a mix of yogurt and mayonnaise can be alternatives.
- → How long should the salad chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and the dressing to penetrate fully into the pasta and vegetables.
- → Are there options to add protein?
Diced cooked chicken or turkey can be added for extra protein without overpowering the dish’s flavor balance.
- → What cheeses are included and why?
Sharp cheddar brings richness, feta adds tanginess, and parmesan contributes a nutty finish, creating a balanced cheese profile.
- → Can the dressing be made ahead?
Yes, preparing the dressing a day in advance enhances flavor integration and saves time during assembly.