Description
A refreshing and creamy pasta salad perfect for gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon (if using).
- In a separate small bowl, mix the ranch dressing with the fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- For a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the ranch dressing.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein and a heartier salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg