Craving a quick and refreshing side dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than our fuss-free simple ranch pasta salad recipe. It’s the perfect summer companion for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option. With a creamy ranch dressing that coats every noodle and a crunchy medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cool on warm days. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pasta (such as rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch salad dressing mix
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Equipments
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large bowl
- Colander
- Whisk
- Serving spoon
How To Make Simple Ranch Pasta Salad
Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Make the ranch dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch salad dressing mix, chives, parsley, celery, red onion, and black olives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the dressing and stir to coat evenly. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
Chill and serve: Place the simple ranch pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve chilled for a refreshing summer treat.
Tips or Possible Variation
To save time, use a pre-made ranch salad dressing. Simply follow the instructions on the bottle.
For a healthier option, use low-fat or non-fat mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also add chopped vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for extra crunch.
To make a vegetarian version, omit the black olives and add another vegetable such as diced sweet peppers or roasted corn kernels.
This simple ranch pasta salad is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your own preferences. Try adding different cheeses, meats, or vegetables to create your own variations. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and make the most of the summer bounty.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a refreshing summer treat, our simple ranch pasta salad recipe is the perfect solution. With its creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite for all occasions.