Craving a flavorful and refreshing side dish? Look no further than our delectable pasta salad ranch dressing recipe. This classic American side dish combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy ranch dressing for a delightful treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a family gathering, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make this dish. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to impress your guests. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure!
Before we dive into the recipe, here’s a gorgeous image of our finished pasta salad ranch dressing to inspire your cooking:
Ingredients and Equipment
To make this delightful pasta salad ranch dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound uncooked pasta (such as penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the ranch dressing, you’ll need:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- Large bowl
- Whisks or a spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
How To Make Pasta Salad Ranch Dressing
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta salad ranch dressing:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the celery, carrots, red onion, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and chopped parsley.
- To make the ranch dressing, combine all of the dressing ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to blend.
Tips or Possible Variations for Pasta Salad Ranch Dressing
Here are a few tips and possible variations to enhance your pasta salad ranch dressing:
- For a creamy twist, add 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese to the dressing.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise in the dressing.
Pasta salad ranch dressing is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish, a main course, or even a snack. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. So next time you’re looking for a tasty and easy-to-make side dish, give our pasta salad ranch dressing recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!