CREAMY RANCH PASTA SALAD

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Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad image

My husband's favorite - he'll put away the whole batch in two days. Not the lightest pasta salad, but very tasty and refreshing on a hot day. This is a great side with sandwiches, chicken, burgers, etc., or it makes a good lunch by itself. This is very flexible, so feel free to add/omit veggies, adjust seasonings or increase/decrease dressing as you see fit.

Provided by Kevlarturtle

Categories     Summer

Time 30m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 cup mayonnaise
2/3 cup ranch dressing
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
black pepper
1 lb rotini pasta (or similar shape)
2 -3 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut bite-sized
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch strips
4 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
4 ounces monterey jack cheese or 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Steps:

  • Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water. When pasta is almost tender (about 2 minutes from done) add broccoli. Return to a boil and continue cooking until pasta is al dente and broccoli is crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water. Drain again and return to pot; add bell pepper and chill while preparing dressing.
  • Prepare dressing by combining all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and stirring thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  • When salad is cool enough, add cheese cubes (you don't want them to melt) and dressing. Stir well to combine and transfer to a large bowl or casserole dish. Serve chilled.

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