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+ servings
Ranch Pasta Salad

Ranch Pasta Salad: Fresh, Creamy, and Totally Customizable

Ranch Pasta Salad is a fresh and creamy dish that is totally customizable for everyone’s taste.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta A great choice for holding the creamy dressing; substitute with any pasta shape you love.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cucumbers Adds a refreshing crunch.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Provides sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Imparts sharpness; soak in cold water to mellow flavor.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Brings richness and creaminess.
  • 4 slices Bacon Delivers savory crunch; optional for vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing The star that binds everything with flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prep the Vegetables: Wash and prepare the vegetables. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, and slice red onion thinly. Soak sliced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta, prepped veggies, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon. Gently fold everything together.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour ranch dressing over mixed ingredients, and add a spoonful of sour cream if desired. Toss carefully until well coated.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize ingredients based on your preferences; avoid overcooking pasta for the best texture.

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