Ranch Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Staple
Description
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Ranch Pasta Salad, a beloved dish that has become a staple around our house. This pasta salad is not only a fantastic companion to grilled favorites or hearty sandwiches, but it also shines when paired with cooked meats, making it a perfect choice for a chilled meal on warm days. The preparation time does not account for refrigeration, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tri-color spiral pasta | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Green bell pepper | 1 (diced) |
| Roma tomatoes | 2-3 (diced) |
| Black olives | 1 can (sliced) |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Water | 1 cup (for boiling pasta) |
| Fresh black pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 434.3 |
| Total Fat | 21.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 24.8 mg |
| Sodium | 480.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 47.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 3.7 g |
| Protein | 11.8 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color spiral pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to cool it down, which is essential for a pasta salad.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl or a large container, gently combine the cooled pasta with the chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, diced roma tomatoes, sliced black olives, and shredded cheddar cheese. It’s important to mix these ingredients well to ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Season to Perfection: After combining the ingredients, season the salad with fresh black pepper to taste. The pepper adds a nice touch of warmth that complements the ranch flavor beautifully.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. While the dish is ready to serve after mixing, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator will help the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the salad. For an even better experience, consider refrigerating it for several hours or overnight if time allows.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the salad has chilled, give it a quick stir to redistribute the ingredients, then serve it cold. This Ranch Pasta Salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a delightful side dish for barbecues.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs, making it an ideal choice for any summer gathering. Feel free to get creative by adding cooked meats like diced rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
With its colorful ingredients and creamy ranch dressing, this Ranch Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s vibrant flavors. It’s quick to prepare, easy on the wallet, and perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy it at your next picnic or backyard barbecue and watch it become a family favorite!
Keywords
Ranch Pasta Salad, Summer Pasta Salad, Easy Pasta Salad, Cold Pasta Salad, Side Dish, Summer Recipe, Picnic Recipe, Quick Meal
