Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad: A Summer Staple
This Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad holds a special place in my heart, as it brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent with family at our annual summer BBQs. The laughter, the delicious food, and the joy of being together made those moments unforgettable. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of togetherness and the simple pleasures of life.
What Makes It Special
There are several reasons why this Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad stands out:
- Flavorful Dressing: The creamy ranch dressing adds a zesty kick that elevates the entire dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or meal prep, this salad fits right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it ideal for meal prep.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
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Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish with fresh parsley.
My Pro Tips
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For added crunch, consider tossing in some diced bell peppers or snap peas.
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If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the ranch dressing.
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Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
What to Serve With It
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Watermelon slices
- Chips and salsa
- Lemonade or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Any short pasta like penne or rotini works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
The Heart of the Dish
This Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing meals with loved ones. Each bite is filled with nostalgia and warmth, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients and share your variations. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish with fresh parsley.
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