Indulge your taste buds with the irresistible flavor of creamy ranch pasta salad! This refreshing and flavorful dish is a perfect side dish for summer picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. With its creamy ranch dressing and assortment of crisp vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and utterly delicious.
The secret to this creamy ranch pasta salad lies in the homemade ranch dressing. Made with buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, herbs, and spices, it delivers a tangy and creamy flavor that perfectly complements the pasta and vegetables. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives adds an extra burst of freshness and aroma.
As you prepare this creamy ranch pasta salad, feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, red onions, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes all make wonderful additions. If you prefer a heartier salad, consider adding cooked chicken, ham, or bacon.
Ingredients and Equipments
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make
Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water.
Make the Ranch Dressing:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Combine Salad Ingredients:
- Return the pasta to the large bowl and add the bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
- Stir until the salad is well coated.
Tips and Variations
Tips:
- For a creamier salad, add an extra 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or sour cream to the dressing.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley or dill.
- To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the dressing and pasta separately. Combine them just before serving.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a more substantial salad.
- Substitute different vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or celery.
- Use different flavors of pasta, such as spinach pasta or whole wheat pasta.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or bringing a dish to a potluck, this creamy ranch pasta salad is sure to impress your guests. With its irresistible flavor and versatility, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. So next time you need a refreshing and flavorful side dish, give this creamy ranch pasta salad a try. You won’t be disappointed!