Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy ranch dressing gives this pasta salad plenty of flavor while crisp vegetables, bacon and cheddar cheese add color and crunch. It's an easy make-ahead recipe for cookouts, family dinners, potlucks and lunch boxes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 12 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until just tender.
2. Drain, rinse with cold water and allow the pasta to cool completely.
3. In a large serving bowl combine the pasta, broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, bell pepper, cheddar cheese and bacon.
4. Whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream and milk until smooth.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Stir in the chives or green onions.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
8. Toss again before serving and season with salt and pepper if needed.