Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad: A Delicious Fusion of Flavors
Welcome to a culinary journey that combines the rich flavors of Tuscany with the comfort of a creamy pasta salad. Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads, offering a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, planning a picnic, or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Salad:
- 1 (16 oz.) package fettuccine, cooked according to package instructions and tossed with 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 (6 oz.) packages Genoa salami, sliced
- 2 (15 oz.) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (8 oz.) can black olives, sliced and drained
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 (8 oz.) block provolone cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, water, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked fettuccine, Genoa salami, cannellini beans, black olives, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, provolone cheese, red onion, basil, and parsley.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Make It Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for additional protein and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami and add more beans or roasted vegetables to make this salad vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the fettuccine to make this salad gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free mayonnaise and cheese alternatives to make this salad dairy-free while still enjoying its creamy goodness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the fettuccine with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use full-fat Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, and skip the cannellini beans to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb option, use whole wheat or chickpea pasta instead of traditional fettuccine. Reduce the amount of beans and substitute with additional vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or broccoli florets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta, such as penne, bowtie, or rotini, in place of fettuccine.
- How long will the Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad last in the refrigerator? This salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
- Can I omit any ingredients if I have dietary restrictions? Yes, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs. Omit or substitute any ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Can I add additional vegetables to the salad? Of course! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables to the salad to enhance its flavor and nutrition.
Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, main course, or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to impress. With its creamy dressing, savory salami, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables, every bite is a burst of Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to make this recipe your own. Enjoy!
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad!
