Go Back
Pasta salad mixed all together and ready to eat on a wooden spoon

The Best Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

This creamy Italian pasta salad is loaded with tender pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, salami, and mozzarella cheese tossed in a homemade creamy Italian dressing. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, meal prep, and family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Italian Pasta Salad
Servings: 8 Servings

Ingredients

Pasta Salad

  • 12 oz pasta
  • 1 large cucumber diced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 6 oz salami chopped
  • 6 oz mozzarella cheese cubed

Creamy Italian Dressing

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2-3 tbsps parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.
  2. Add the cooled pasta, cucumber, tomatoes, salami, and mozzarella to a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
  6. Stir before serving.

Notes

  • This pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
  • If making ahead, reserve a small amount of dressing to stir in before serving since the pasta will absorb some of the dressing as it chills.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.