Bacon Ranch Rotini Salad
A delightful salad combining al dente rotini pasta, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and rich ranch dressing, perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.
Ingredients
Pasta and Dressing
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup ranch dressing Use your favorite brand or homemade
Meat
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6-8 strips) Cook until crispy
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed If using fresh, blanch in boiling water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Prepare the bacon
- While the pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 7-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the vegetables
- Rinse and chop the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. If using fresh peas instead of frozen, blanch them in boiling water for a minute before cooling in ice water.
Combine ingredients
- After the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini, chopped bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and thawed peas.
Add the dressing
- Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
Finish and chill
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss lightly again to mix. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For best flavor, let it chill for at least 30 minutes. Add diced bell peppers, olives, or corn for variations. Can include shredded rotisserie chicken or canned tuna for a complete meal.