Are you ready to whip up a dish that’s not only vibrant and creamy but also incredibly easy to make? I’m talking about my Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad! This delightful side dish is perfect for quick family dinners, potlucks, or even as a refreshing lunch option. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a pasta salad that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a breeze to make, perfect for 30-minute meals.
- Loaded with fresh veggies, making it a Healthy Ranch Pasta Salad.
- Great for meal prep and can be served cold, ideal for Ranch Pasta Salad Recipes Cold.
- Perfect for school lunches or as a side for family gatherings.
- Versatile enough to pair with any main dish!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Pasta Salad With Ranch, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Pasta Salad Recipes With Ranch Dressing:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add the ranch dressing and mix well until everything is coated.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and parsley for that extra burst of flavor.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Fun Pasta Salad turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand. Zucchini or carrots can be great additions!
- If you want a little kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the ranch dressing.
- This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinner ideas.
How to Serve
This Pasta Salad With Ranch Dressing is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or burgers for a complete meal.
- Pack it in lunchboxes for a refreshing school lunch pasta salad.
- Top it with some grilled shrimp or chicken for a hearty main dish.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for a beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Healthy Ranch Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you’re making it ahead of time, consider adding the cheese just before serving to keep it fresh.
- This salad can be a great addition to your meal prep routine, making it easy to grab for quick family dinners.
So there you have it! My Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for easy pasta recipes for a busy weeknight or a fun dish to bring to your next gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to check out more delicious recipes like Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It, Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It, and Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- Combine cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Add ranch dressing and mix well.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and parsley.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.