Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad with Tri Color Rotini and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing Ranch Pasta Salad is a colorful and creamy side dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal. The combination of tri-color rotini pasta and crisp vegetables tossed in a tangy ranch dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, finely diced
For the ranch salad dressing:
- 8 oz sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: Salt a large pot of water and cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 2: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, finely diced red bell pepper, chopped cucumber, and finely diced broccoli florets.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy to form the ranch dressing.
- Step 4: Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetables, stirring gently to combine. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dressing with a bit of tang.
- Add chopped cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots for extra color and flavor.
- Include cooked, diced chicken or bacon for a heartier salad.
- Serve immediately if short on time, but chilling enhances the flavor.
Storage
Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Before serving again, give it a good stir and add a splash of milk or extra sour cream if the dressing has thickened. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any bite-sized pasta such as fusilli, penne, or bow tie works well in this salad. Just be sure to cook it al dente and rinse to cool.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives and use a vegan ranch seasoning or make your own with herbs and spices.
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Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad with Tri Color Rotini and Fresh Veggies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This refreshing Ranch Pasta Salad combines tri-color rotini pasta with crisp red bell peppers, cucumber, and broccoli florets tossed in a creamy homemade ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light meal, this easy-to-make pasta salad is flavorful and made with common ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, finely diced
Ranch Salad Dressing
- 8 oz sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Salt a large pot of water and bring it to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta immediately and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, finely dice the red bell pepper, chop the cucumber, and finely dice the broccoli florets. Add all the vegetables to a large serving bowl along with the cooled pasta.
- Make the ranch dressing: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and the ranch seasoning packet. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine salad: Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld. This also ensures the salad is served nice and cold.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Notes
- For best texture, do not overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to keep the salad from becoming mushy.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other crunchy vegetables like celery or carrots.
- The salad can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to develop further.
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayo.
- Ensure to refrigerate promptly and keep the salad chilled to maintain freshness and safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ranch Pasta Salad, Tri-Color Rotini Salad, Creamy Pasta Salad, Easy Pasta Salad, Summer Salad
