Sometimes, the best way to elevate a classic is to give it a bold, unexpected twist. This Smoky Gouda Pasta Salad does just that, taking a familiar side dish and transforming it into a rich, flavor-packed centerpiece. It's a fantastic alternative to the traditional pasta salad, perfect for a barbecue, a picnic, or a delicious, make-ahead lunch.

The star of this dish is, without a doubt, the smoky Gouda cheese. Its deep, savory flavor pairs perfectly with a zesty, creamy dressing that cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing tang. The result is a pasta salad that is a symphony of flavors and textures—the soft pasta, the crunchy vegetables, the creamy dressing, and the irresistible bite of smoky cheese.

Smoky Gouda Pasta Salad

A Zesty Twist for Your Next Meal

Yields: 6-8 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Chill time: 1 hour

Ingredients

  • For the Pasta & Mix-ins:

    • 1 lb small pasta shells or rotini

    • 2 cups smoked Gouda cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes

    • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

    • ½ cup finely diced red onion

    • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

    • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

  • For the Zesty Dressing:

    • 1 cup mayonnaise

    • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

    • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

    • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

  2. Drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process. This is a crucial step to prevent the pasta from getting mushy.

  3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large bowl.

2. Prepare the Dressing and Mix-ins

  1. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well-combined.

  2. To the bowl with the pasta, add the diced smoked Gouda, red bell pepper, red onion, thawed peas, and fresh parsley.

3. Assemble and Chill

  1. Pour the zesty dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

  2. Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.

  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and deepens the taste.

4. Serve

  • Serve the Smoky Gouda Pasta Salad chilled. It’s perfect as a side dish, or as a light lunch.

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Salad

  • The Right Pasta: Small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or even bowties work best. They hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.

  • Don't Overcook: Al dente pasta is essential. Overcooked, soft pasta will absorb too much liquid and become mushy.

  • Cold is Key: The cold rinse after cooking the pasta and the chilling time are non-negotiable. They prevent the salad from becoming soggy and allow the flavors to develop.

  • Customize the Cheese: If you can't find smoked Gouda, you can use regular Gouda and a little extra smoked paprika in the dressing to achieve a similar flavor profile.

  • Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, crispy bacon bits, or chickpeas to the salad.

  • Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.