why make this recipe
Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy dish that you can enjoy as a side or main meal. It combines pasta, protein, and veggies in a creamy dressing that is both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it is simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.
how to make Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Ingredients :
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1.5 tablespoons ranch dressing seasoning
- 8 oz cubed ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
Directions :
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente (8–9 minutes).
- Cool the pasta: Drain pasta and rinse under cold water until cooled. Set aside to dry for 30 minutes.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, and ranch seasoning until smooth (3 minutes).
- Add veggies and protein: Stir in frozen peas and fold in the cubed ham (2 minutes).
- Combine with pasta: Add cooled rotini and mix until evenly coated (3 minutes).
- Chill for best flavor: Refrigerate for 4 hours before serving for enhanced flavor.
how to serve Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Serve Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. You can dish it out as a side for grilled meats or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra peas for a pop of color.
how to store Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after a few days, you can add a little more mayonnaise or buttermilk to refresh it.
tips to make Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked ham or leftover meat.
- For extra crunch, add diced bell peppers or celery.
- You can substitute the ranch dressing seasoning for your favorite dressing for a different flavor.
variation
Try adding cherry tomatoes or shredded cheese for a twist on the classic salad. You can also replace ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together even better.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Certainly! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or bowtie.
3. Is this recipe vegetarian?
No, this recipe contains ham. However, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more veggies.
