Debby'S Pasta Salad
A creamy, flavorful pasta salad with fresh vegetables and cheese, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners, with zesty ranch and herbs throughout.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix green pepper, carrots, and Mozzarella cheese with cooked pasta.
- Add Ranch dressing gradually, stirring after each addition until well coated.
- Season with lemon pepper, oregano (about 6 shakes), and Parmesan cheese to taste.
- Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt along with the Ranch dressing. You can substitute the Ruffles pasta with any short pasta shape like rotini or penne. For added crunch, toss in some diced celery or chopped olives. Don't hesitate to use low-fat dressing variations if you're watching calories, and feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or basil for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad chilled as a delightful side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, and can be a great vegetarian option when served alongside hearty dishes like Kentucky Spoon Bread(Good With Chili Or Ham And Beans). Add some fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This pasta salad can be enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, you can add a splash of Ranch dressing or a bit of olive oil before serving to refresh its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debby'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 230 calories, with 14g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (95% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and calcium (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantity accordingly to maintain the flavor balance. This makes it a more filling dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this pasta salad gluten-free, simply substitute the Ruffles pasta with a gluten-free pasta option available at most grocery stores. Additionally, double-check the Ranch dressing label to ensure it's gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving and add any extra dressing if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).