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Ranch Pasta Salad

A delightful dish combining pasta with vibrant vegetables, all tossed in creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 oz tricolor rotini pasta 1 box (12 oz)
  • 1 cup chopped broccoli
  • 1 cup chopped cucumbers (peeled & seeded)
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Homemade Ranch Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups ranch dressing Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup sour cream For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried chives For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt For homemade ranch dressing
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper For homemade ranch dressing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Boil a pot of water and add approximately 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the tricolor rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to cool it quickly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped broccoli, cucumbers, tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.

Dressing

  • Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
  • If desired, add more ranch dressing to taste.

Serving

  • Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving. Stir again before serving if needed.

Homemade Ranch Dressing

  • Combine all ranch dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until well blended.

Notes

Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, and garnishing with fresh herbs or extra parmesan cheese for added flavor. Use fresh veggies for the best taste.
Keyword BBQ Side, Easy Salad, Pasta Salad Recipe, Ranch Pasta Salad, Vegetable Salad