Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo: A Simple & Creamy Summer Delight

When summer days get hot, nobody wants to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where a cold pasta salad with mayo comes in! It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or lazy lunches at home. This creamy dish combines tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a smooth, flavorful mayo-based dressing.

What is Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo?

A cold pasta salad with mayo is exactly what it sounds like. Pasta that’s cooked, cooled, and tossed in a mayonnaise-based dressing. It’s usually mixed with vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers, and sometimes even includes protein like chicken, tuna, or eggs.

This dish has become a staple in many homes, because it’s simple and easy to make. You can change up the ingredients based on what you have on hand, which means you’ll never get bored of it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect cold pasta salad with mayo:

For the Salad:

- - 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
  - 1 cup diced cucumber
  - 1 cup shredded carrots
  - ½ cup diced red bell pepper
  - ½ cup sweet corn (canned or cooked)
  - 2 boiled eggs (optional)
  - Salt to taste

For the Dressing:

- - ¾ cup mayonnaise
  - 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
  - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  - ½ teaspoon sugar
  - Black pepper to taste
  - A pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Equipment Needed

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following:

- - Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  - Strainer or colander
  - Cutting board and knife
  - Mixing bowl
  - Spoon or spatula
  - Small whisk (for dressing)

How to Make Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, chop your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and carrots. If using boiled eggs, peel and chop them as well.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, mustard, vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, chopped veggies, and eggs. Pour the dressing over and mix until well coated. Taste and add salt if needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend well.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

- - Cool the pasta completely before adding the mayo to prevent it from getting oily.
  - Use real mayo, not salad dressing, for the best taste.
  - If making ahead, add a little extra mayo just before serving to freshen it up.
  - Add herbs like chopped parsley or dill for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

- - Store your cold pasta salad with mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the mayo can separate.

Variations You Can Try

Looking to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:

- - Add protein like shredded chicken, canned tuna, or tofu.
  - Make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes.
  - Try other veggies like cherry tomatoes, olives, or green peas.
  - Switch up the dressing by using sour cream or ranch instead of mayo.

What to Serve With Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo

This dish goes well with:

- - Grilled chicken or fish
  - Sandwiches or wraps
  - Fresh fruit juice or iced tea
  - A light soup for a complete meal

Check out our Lazy Summer Dinner Ideas for more inspiration!

Pair it with a refreshing drink from our Top 10 Summer Salads post.

Why You’ll Love This Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo

Quick to make – Done in under 30 minutes.

Great for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge.

Customizable – Add your favorite ingredients.

Perfect for any occasion – Picnics, parties, or lunchboxes.

Cold Pasta Salad with Mayo for Meal Prep

This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can divide it into individual containers and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s also ideal for lunchboxes and office meals.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

- - Calories: 340
  - Protein: 8g
  - Fat: 16g
  - Carbohydrates: 38g
  - Fiber: 3g

*Values may vary depending on ingredients used

FAQ

Q: Can I make this pasta salad the night before?
A: Absolutely! It tastes even better after resting overnight.

Q: Is it safe to take this to a picnic?
A: Yes, but make sure to keep it cool in an insulated container or cooler bag.

Q: Can I make it without mayo?
A: You can replace mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream, but the taste will be slightly different.

A cold pasta salad with mayo is more than just a quick dish. It’s a summer essential. Easy to make, loved by all ages, and endlessly versatile, it deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation. Try it once and you’ll come back to it every time the sun shines!

Have a version you love? Share your tips or photos in the comments!