Description
Looking for a quick lunch, easy dinner, or a healthy snack option that bursts with flavor? This creamy bow tie pasta salad is a colorful, crave-worthy combination of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing. Perfect for summer potlucks, picnic baskets, or make-ahead meal prep, this pasta salad recipe is an easy crowd-pleaser. With ingredients like ham, peas, and bell peppers wrapped in a creamy herb dressing, it’s one of those go-to food ideas that delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Ideal for anyone seeking dinner ideas, quick lunches, or a no-fuss easy recipe.
Ingredients
12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 cup diced ham
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
Salt and pepper to taste
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
2. Dice the ham, bell peppers, and red onion. Thaw the peas by running under cool water. Chop herbs if using.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, ham, vegetables, and herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Notes
Always cook the pasta just until al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent it from becoming mushy.
If making ahead, you can stir in a spoonful of mayo or milk before serving to refresh the creaminess.
Customize with other proteins or veggies like grilled chicken, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 570
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 4.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 25
Keywords: pasta salad, creamy salad, quick lunch, easy recipe, make ahead, cold pasta salad, dinner ideas