Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal that’s perfect for a potluck, a picnic, or a weeknight dinner? Look no further than this creamy Hidden Valley Ranch Pasta Salad! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, blending the tangy kick of Hidden Valley Ranch with perfectly cooked pasta and a medley of fresh vegetables. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and delicious dish. Get ready to elevate your pasta salad game!
Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavors
This recipe is designed for easy preparation, using readily available ingredients. You'll need:
- 1 pound pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup Hidden Valley Ranch dressing (original or your preferred flavor)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Culinary Journey
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Hidden Valley Ranch Pasta Salad:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
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Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the celery, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. If using, shred the cheddar cheese. This ensures everything is ready when the pasta is cooked.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, Hidden Valley Ranch dressing, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cheese (if using). Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Season and serve: Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final toss, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld – though it tastes amazing immediately too!
Tips and Tricks for Pasta Perfection
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for a great salad. It should be firm to the bite, not mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley brightens up the salad considerably. Consider adding other fresh herbs like dill or chives for a unique twist.
- Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a less creamy salad, reduce the amount of mayonnaise. For extra tang, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Add protein: Boost the nutritional value and make it a more complete meal by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or bacon bits.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities!
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Italian Herb Ranch: Substitute Italian dressing for part of the Ranch dressing and add oregano and basil.
- Bacon Ranch: Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the salad for a savory and smoky flavor. It's a perfect quick dinner idea that’s both easy and impressive.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This Hidden Valley Ranch Pasta Salad recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great example of a delicious dish that’s both easy and healthy. Enjoy!