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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: Your Perfect Summer Side Dish

Enjoy this Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, a delightful summer side dish packed with creamy ranch dressing and crispy bacon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Tri-color rotini pasta Any pasta shape can be used.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream Plain yogurt is a good alternative.
  • 1 packet Dry ranch dressing/seasoning mix Prepared ranch dressing can also be used.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic for more flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Buttermilk can be used for a tangy taste.
The Tasty Additions
  • 6 slices Cooked bacon, chopped Pre-cooked bacon saves time.
  • 1 large Tomato, diced Bell pepper can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced black olives, drained Optional.
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese A cheese blend can also be used or omit for a lighter dish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook for about 8 minutes or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, dry ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and milk. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
  3. Add the cooled rotini pasta to the dressing. Incorporate cooked bacon, diced tomato, drained black olives, and shredded cheddar cheese. Fold together gently.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Stir gently before serving. Add a splash of milk if the salad seems dry. Garnish with additional bacon or cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for best flavor. Can be made a day in advance.

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