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Quick Creamy Instant Pot Pasta Salad

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A quick and creamy pasta salad made in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy lunches. Ready in about 10 minutes, this dish is creamy, tangy, and fresh with simple ingredients and easy prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups (480 ml) water or broth
  • 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, or vegan cheese for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. Gather 8 ounces (225 g) of pasta and 2 cups (480 ml) water or broth. Dice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and chop herbs. Soften 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese by leaving it out for 30 minutes or microwaving in 10-second bursts.
  2. Add pasta and water or broth to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done to avoid overcooking.
  3. While pasta cooks, whisk together softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60 ml) Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. When the Instant Pot is open, stir the pasta gently to release some steam and prevent clumping. Immediately fold in the creamy sauce until the pasta is evenly coated and silky smooth.
  5. Toss in the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped herbs. Stir gently to combine without mashing the tomatoes.
  6. Stir in shredded cheese if using, allowing it to melt slightly.
  7. Chill the pasta salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, or serve warm if in a hurry.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; use quick release immediately after cooking to keep pasta al dente. Soften cream cheese well before mixing to avoid lumps. Add fresh veggies and herbs after cooking to keep salad bright and crisp. If salad is too thick after chilling, add a splash of milk or olive oil to loosen. Can be served chilled or warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, quick lunch, easy recipe, meal prep, vegetarian, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/quick-creamy-instant-pot-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-10-minute-lunch/