Name: The Ultimate Summer Pasta Salad With Ranch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 Pasta packet. I like to use penne, rotini, or farfalle (bow tie); 3.5 cup of bell peppers of various colors; 1.5 cup broccoli; 1.5 cup cut onions; 2 cups baby spinach or 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves; 1 cup shredded carrots; 2 tablespoons capers; 1/2 cup cut olives; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 cup mayo; 1/4 cup Italian Salad dressing; 3 tablespoons ranch dressing; Salt as per taste; 1 teaspoon crushed red chilies

5.0 from 1 vote

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5/5 - (1 vote)

This summer pasta salad recipe is the ultimate pasta, full of fresh ingredients and tons of flavor. It is quick, simple, picnic-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser.

Pasta salad is a quick 20-minute meal that can be stored for up to 4–5 days. The best part about this pasta is that it improves with time. Leftovers are truly a treat the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Summer Salad Recipe

Preparation is quick. Chop the veggies while boiling the pasta.
Use any available vegetables and leftover meats.
Dressing can be any bottled dressing. I like using Ranch and Italian dressing
It’s a make-ahead meal! This makes it ideal for any summertime gathering.

Variations You Can Do In Your Salad

Add any vegetables. Broccoli florets, finely chopped, or slightly grilled zucchini. This adds color and crunch to the salad.
Black olives can be changed to Kalamata olives.
Sun-dried tomatoes can be added. For a more sweet-tart flavor
Store-bought salad dressing can be replaced. A simple combination of vinegar or lemon juice with olive oil, salt, and pepper is also another alternative. This makes the perfect tangy dressing.
Mayo and Ranch Powder can be replaced by store-bought Ranch.
Add fresh basil instead of baby spinach.

Few Tips For The Ultimate Pasta

Cook pasta. Cook the pasta for 8–10 minutes, or until it is tender. I find that the highest time range listed on the box instructions is perfect for pasta salad.
Completely cool the pasta. The hot pasta will cause the vegetables to start cooking. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl or serving bowl. Allow the pasta to cool completely before adding the vegetables.
Save some greens for the garnish! This pasta salad recipe is a great one to make ahead. Save some of the baby spinach for garnish. This will help keep their crunchy texture and freshness.
Refrigerate before serving. Chill the dish to bring out the flavors. This pasta salad is delicious when made ahead of time.

How Long Does Pasta Salad Last?

Refrigerated in a sealed container, this pasta salad will keep for 4-5 days. It’s a great idea to make pasta salad a day before an event and store it in the refrigerator. This improves the flavor intensity and hustle.

What To Serve With Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is the ideal side dish for any spring or summer event, including barbecues, picnics, birthdays, and lunch! Here are a few of my favorite dish pairings:

Want More Delicious Pasta Recipes?

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