Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad – Light, Flavorful, and Perfect for Any Gathering

This Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad is the ultimate side dish—cool, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. Made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a lighter homemade ranch dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for BBQs, potlucks, or even a quick weekday lunch. You’ll get all the creamy, herby goodness you love, but with a more balanced approach to keep it light and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lighter Dressing: All the creamy ranch flavor with fewer calories.
Fresh & Colorful: Packed with crunchy veggies for texture and nutrition.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors get even better after chilling.
Customizable: Easy to swap veggies or add protein.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat rotini or penne pasta (uncooked)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup light mayonnaise
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (homemade or store-bought)
• 2–3 tbsp skim milk (to thin, if needed)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables
While pasta cooks, chop all veggies into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and ranch seasoning mix. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine & Chill
In a large mixing bowl, toss pasta with vegetables. Pour dressing over the top and stir until evenly coated.

5. Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 170
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 4.5g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Chill Well: This salad tastes best after resting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
• Boost Protein: Add diced grilled chicken or turkey bacon bits for a heartier dish.
• Make It Ahead: Perfect for prepping a day before a picnic or potluck.
• Go Colorful: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a more vibrant look.

Why This Recipe Works

This pasta salad combines the comfort of a creamy dressing with the freshness of crisp veggies, offering a balanced dish that feels indulgent but is actually smart on calories. It’s quick, easy, and versatile enough to be served year-round.