This Easy Pasta Salad recipe is a great go-to side dish when you’re short on time, but still want something tasty for a barbecue or picnic. This pasta salad is simple and can be put together in about 20 minutes or less. It is also easy to customize, or just to put together with the vegetables that you have on hand. After the pasta is cooked, it is a great recipe that your kids can help you make, too!
Here is what you need… Pasta, vegetables, Ranch and Italian salad dressings.
Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package. I like to stop cooking the pasta when it is al dente, that way it will not fall apart when you stir the salad. Rinse the pasta in cold water after it is done cooking in order to stop further cooking and to help it cool faster.
In a large bowl, mix together the pasta, vegetables, and salad dressings.
The stirring is a great part for kids to jump in and help!
Cover and and refrigerate until ready to serve. If you’re adding cheese, wait to stir it in until right before serving.
Easy Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 12- to 16- oz. box rotini pasta
- 3 to 4 cups bite-sided vegetables
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- 1 cup cubed cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to directions. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water. In a large bowl (2 qt), mix together pasta, vegetables, and salad dressings. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If using cheese cubes, mix in just before serving.