Creamy Ranch Bowtie Pasta Salad

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Ingredients:

For the salad:

  • 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk (optional, for thinner consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down the pasta. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, thinly sliced green onions, chopped fresh parsley, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, buttermilk (if using), chopped fresh dill (if using), chopped fresh chives (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
  5. Gently toss the pasta salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy ranch dressing.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and chill the salad.
  7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs if desired.
  8. Serve the Creamy Ranch Bowtie Pasta Salad chilled as a side dish or enjoy it as a light and refreshing main course.
  9. This Creamy Ranch Bowtie Pasta Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and tangy ranch flavor. Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite veggies or protein options like grilled chicken or crispy bacon. Enjoy!

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