Description
Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish featuring tender pasta, crisp vegetables, cheese, and optional bacon, all tossed in ranch dressing—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz short pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 3/4 to 1 cup ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Transfer pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheese, and bacon if using.
- Pour in ranch dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Stir before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Add shredded chicken to make it a main dish.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack, feta, or your favorite cheese.
- Mix in extra veggies like peas, bell peppers, or olives.
- Use light ranch or Greek yogurt + ranch seasoning for a lighter version.
- If salad thickens in the fridge, stir in a splash of milk or extra dressing before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
