Pasta & Slaw Salad
A quick, crunchy pasta salad with broccoli slaw and peas, dressed in creamy ranch, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight meals with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli slaw, and frozen peas.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute the ranch with a yogurt-based alternative. This salad can also be made vegan by using a plant-based dressing. If you have leftover pasta, you can use that instead of cooking new pasta, making this a great way to use up pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta & Slaw Salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Cajun Spiced Chicken for a hearty meal. You can also serve it alongside Jean'S Tomato Florentine Soup for a comforting lunch. Garnish with fresh herbs or serve with crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing over time, so consider adding a bit more ranch before serving. If the salad becomes too dry, a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can help refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta & Slaw Salad contains roughly 60 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. However, for the freshest taste, it's best to toss the dressing in just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming too soggy.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like shredded carrots, diced cucumbers, or even chopped green onions. This versatility allows you to use whatever fresh produce you have on hand. For a crunchier texture, consider adding sunflower seeds or nuts.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Pasta & Slaw Salad is great for meal prep. Portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the salad's texture and flavor.
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).