Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Greek Yogurt

There’s something irresistible about a good pasta salad. It’s creamy, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it a staple for potlucks, barbecues, and even quick weeknight meals. But traditional pasta salads often come loaded with heavy mayonnaise-based dressings that can make them feel overly indulgent. That’s where this Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad with Greek Yogurt comes in—a lighter, nutrient-packed twist on a classic favorite.

This recipe delivers everything you love about a creamy pasta salad but swaps out the mayonnaise for protein-rich Greek yogurt. The result? A dish that is not only deliciously creamy but also much healthier! With crisp vegetables, al dente pasta, and a zesty, herby dressing, this salad is perfect for a nutritious lunch, side dish, or meal prep option. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – Greek yogurt replaces mayonnaise, offering a protein-packed, probiotic-rich creamy dressing.
• Flavorful and Fresh – A delicious combination of crunchy veggies, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing makes every bite exciting.
• Quick and Easy – This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Meal Prep Friendly – It stores well in the fridge, making it great for make-ahead lunches and dinners.
• Highly Versatile – Add your favorite proteins, swap the veggies, or use different pasta shapes to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups whole wheat pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

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 process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop all your vegetables—halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, shred the carrots, and slice the black olives. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and gently mix. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta – It adds more fiber and nutrients than white pasta while maintaining a great texture.
• Rinse the Pasta with Cold Water – This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Let the Salad Sit – Allowing the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust the Dressing – If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt or olive oil before serving.
• Chop Veggies Evenly – This ensures every bite has a perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Creative Variations

• Protein-Packed – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Cheese Lovers’ Version – Swap feta for shredded Parmesan or cubed mozzarella.
• Spicy Kick – Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or rice.
• Extra Crunch – Toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or croutons for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as:

• A side dish for grilled meats or seafood
• A light lunch with a side of whole-grain crackers
• A refreshing meal prep option for busy weekdays
• A party-friendly potluck dish that everyone will love

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Refreshing Leftovers – Stir in a little extra Greek yogurt or olive oil before serving to freshen up the salad.
• Avoid Freezing – Due to the dairy-based dressing, freezing is not recommended.

The Bottom Line:

This Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad with Greek Yogurt is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal. It’s incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for meal prep, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home. Give it a try, and let this vibrant, health-packed dish become a new favorite in your kitchen!

FAQs:

Also Read:

19 Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings