🥗 Creamy Coleslaw Pasta Salad
📝 Description
This dish combines tender pasta with crisp coleslaw mix and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s creamy like classic coleslaw but more filling thanks to the pasta—basically comfort food with a refreshing crunch.
🍽️ Servings
Serves 4–6
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells – cooled)
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage & carrots)
- ½ cup sweet corn (optional, adds sweetness)
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup cooked shredded chicken (optional for protein boost)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or yogurt
- 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
- 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely. - Prepare the dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream/yogurt, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Combine everything
In a large bowl, add pasta, coleslaw mix, corn, cucumber, onion, and chicken (if using). - Mix & chill
Pour dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes. - Serve
Give it a quick stir before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
💡 Tips
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Add raisins or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
- For extra crunch, toss in toasted nuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.
- Don’t overdress initially—the pasta absorbs dressing as it sits.
🥗 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 280–350
- Protein: 6–12g (higher if chicken added)
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Fat: 15–20g
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
Q: How long does it last?
Up to 2–3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make it healthier?
Swap mayo with half yogurt and use whole wheat pasta.
Q: What pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini or macaroni holds the dressing well.