Ranch Pasta Salad
User Reviews
5
Ranch Pasta Salad
Description
Ranch Pasta Salad features a hearty blend of cooked rotini pasta tossed with fresh vegetables, diced ham, and sharp cheddar cheese, all coated in a creamy dressing that balances tanginess from yogurt and richness from mayonnaise and heavy cream. The dressing’s seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh chives enhances its depth. The inclusion of craisins adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts with the savory ingredients. Served chilled and garnished with extra chives, this salad presents a pleasing contrast of textures—from firm pasta to juicy tomatoes and crisp olives.
The pasta is cooked al dente, then cooled before combining with all ingredients, ensuring it maintains a firm bite without becoming mushy. The salad is best prepared ahead to allow flavors to meld in the refrigerator. It can be served as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches and is appealing for potlucks, lunches, or casual gatherings.
This salad keeps well in an airtight container for several days, making it convenient for meal prep or leftover enjoyment. The combination of dairy-based dressing and robust ingredients balances flavor and texture, making it adaptable to various occasions where a chilled pasta salad is desired.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup yogurt plain, Greek
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 3 teaspoons chive diced, fresh
Pasta Salad
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1 cup grape tomatoes cut in half
- 1 cup black olives drained, medium
- 1 cup ham diced
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese cubed, extra sharp
- ⅓ cup craisins
- chive for garnish, fresh
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package direction until al dente. Drain and let cool to room temperature, about 12 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking - whisk together whipping cream, Greek yogurt, mayo, garlic powder, onion, powder, and chives in a medium bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and set in the fridge to chill.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together cooled pasta, tomatoes, olives, ham, cheese, and raisins. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour in the fridge.
- Unwrap salad and pour dressing over top. Use a large spoon to fold dressing into salad until ingredients are completely coated. Sprinkle chopped chives on top for garnish, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Store the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate; it will keep well for 3 to 5 days.
- Chilling the salad and dressing separately before combining helps maintain fresh flavors and texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 408 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 408kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 34mg | 11% |
| Sodium | 549mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 222mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 402IU | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 123mg | 12% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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