There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta salad, especially when it’s packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor! Today, I’m excited to share my Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad recipe with you. This dish is not only a delightful addition to any meal but also one of those easy pasta recipes that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for quick family dinners or as a side for your next gathering, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite!
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 school lunches or as a fun side dish for parties.
- Versatile enough to pair with any protein for a complete meal.
- Can be made ahead of time, saving you precious minutes during busy weeknights.
Ingredients
To create 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
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making this Pasta Salad Recipes With Ranch Dressing is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and Italian dressing until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Ranch And Italian Dressing Pasta Salad turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Make it a day ahead for even better flavor; the ingredients will soak up the dressing beautifully.
- Adjust the amount of ranch dressing based on your preference for creaminess.
- For a twist, try adding some crumbled bacon or diced avocado!
How to Serve
This Ranch Pasta Salad Recipes Cold is perfect for any occasion! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
- Pair it with grilled meats for a complete meal.
- Pack it in lunchboxes for a delicious school lunch pasta salad.
- Top it with additional cheese or fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
This creamy pasta salad is a fantastic make-ahead option! Here’s how to store it:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, simply add a splash more before serving.
- For best results, keep the salad chilled until ready to serve.
In conclusion, my Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and freshness that will elevate your meals. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a fun dish to share with friends, this pasta salad is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It for more inspiration!
Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
- Add chopped vegetables and herbs, then toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!