Creamy Shell Pasta Salad with Corn and Fresh Vegetables

Ingredients

For the pasta salad

• 12 oz (340 g) medium pasta shells

• 1 cup sweet corn, drained if canned

• 1 medium cucumber, diced

• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced

• ½ small red onion, finely chopped

• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

For the creamy dressing

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1–2 tablespoons milk, optional, to thin the dressing

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until tender but still slightly firm.

Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold running water to stop the cooking and cool it for the salad. Drain thoroughly so excess water does not dilute the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

While the pasta cools, wash and dice the cucumber and red bell pepper. Quarter the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley.

Drain canned corn thoroughly, or use cooked and cooled corn kernels.

Step 3: Make the creamy dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and optional Dijon mustard.

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

If it is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients

Add the cooled pasta shells, corn, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, and parsley to the bowl.

Pour the dressing over the salad. Gently toss until every pasta shell and vegetable is evenly coated.

Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 5: Chill before serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad especially refreshing.

Before serving, stir gently. If the pasta has absorbed some of the dressing, mix in a spoonful of mayonnaise, yogurt, or milk to restore its creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Transfer to a serving bowl or meal-prep container. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a little black pepper.

Serve cold alongside grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, or barbecue dishes.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings using mayonnaise and sour cream.

Nutrition values vary with the dressing brand, pasta type, and portion size.

Helpful Tips

• Prevent soggy salad: Drain the pasta well and cool it before adding the dressing.

• Keep it creamy: Reserve a little dressing to mix in just before serving.

• Add protein: Stir in diced cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

• Make it lighter: Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

• Add crunch: Try finely diced celery or shredded carrots.

• Add a little heat: Sprinkle in paprika or red pepper flakes.

Allergy and Dietary Information

• Nuts: No nuts are required in this recipe. Check packaged ingredients for allergy warnings if necessary.

• Vegetarian: Yes.

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free pasta.

• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free mayonnaise and plant-based yogurt.

• Egg-free: Choose egg-free mayonnaise and check all packaged ingredients.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

• Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.

• Do not leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour when temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C).

• This salad is best served cold; freezing is not recommended because the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables can change texture.

Serving suggestion: Serve this creamy shell pasta salad with grilled chicken or sandwiches for an easy lunch, or bring it chilled to your next family gathering.