Name: Creamy Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad for Comfort Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Rotini Pasta (Substitutes like fusilli work well too.); 2 cups Broccoli (Blanch to maintain vibrant color.); 1 cup Sweet Peas (Fresh or frozen options work.); 1 cup Bacon Bits (Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.); 1 cup Ranch Dressing (Enhance with lemon juice if desired.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with Greek yogurt.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Using light versions keeps it lighter.)

The first bite takes me straight back to summer nights spent at family gatherings, where a vibrant bowl of Ranch Pasta Salad was the ultimate star. This Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad not only captures that nostalgic comfort food essence but is incredibly easy to whip up at home. With creamy ranch dressing hugging the cooked rotini pasta, crisp broccoli, and bursts of sweetness from peas, it’s a delightful dish that you can customize to your liking. You’ll find it’s not just a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic option for meal prep—perfect for quick lunches or dinner sides throughout the week. Are you ready to recreate this beloved classic and add your personal twist?

Why is this pasta salad a must-try?

Nostalgic Flavor: This Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad brings back memories of fun summer gatherings, making it the perfect comfort food.

Customizable Options: Easily adjust ingredients like protein or veggies, catering to your family’s favorites or dietary preferences. Want a touch of crunch? Try adding bell peppers or even a sprinkle of cheese!

Creamy Texture: With a blend of ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and sour cream, each bite is indulgently rich yet balanced with crisp broccoli and sweet peas.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for the week! It stores well in the fridge and makes for a quick lunch paired with grilled meats or as a standalone dish.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family picnic or a potluck, this salad is sure to impress guests, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Explore more delicious options with our Chicken Salad Discover or try out a cozy Rotel Pasta Ground for your next meal!

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Get ready for a creamy delight!

For the Salad

Rotini Pasta – The spirals hold the dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful; substitutes like fusilli work well, too.
Broccoli – Adds a crunchy texture and nutrients; blanch it to keep that vibrant green color!
Sweet Peas – Offers a pop of sweetness; both fresh and frozen options are great here.
Bacon Bits – Provides savory richness; try turkey bacon for a lighter twist.

For the Dressing

Ranch Dressing – This creamy base is the star of the show; enhancing store-bought with lemon juice amplifies the flavor.
Mayonnaise – Contributes creaminess; swap for Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Sour Cream – Adds a tangy finish to the dressing; using light versions keeps it lighter.

Customize your Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad with additional ingredients to make it your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Once perfectly cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, ensuring the flavors will meld well in the final salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water nearby. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn vibrant green and are tender yet still crisp. Immediately transfer the broccoli to the ice water bath to halt the cooking process and maintain that beautiful color. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine your chosen ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and sour cream to create a creamy base for this Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad. If using store-bought dressing, consider enhancing the flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice or your favorite spices. Whisk until smooth and well-blended, adjusting the consistency with a bit of milk if desired.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta, blanched broccoli, sweet peas, and crispy bacon bits. This medley of ingredients forms the heart of your pasta salad. Gently fold everything together until the vegetables and bacon are evenly distributed among the pasta, ensuring each bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dressing
Carefully pour your homemade or adjusted ranch dressing over the pasta salad mix. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is thoroughly coated. The creamy dressing should cling to the rotini and vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that embodies the essence of Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad.

Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. For optimal results, consider letting it chill longer. Just before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir to recombine and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

What to Serve with Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad

Create a delightful meal experience with the perfect accompaniments to elevate your salad’s comforting flavors.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta salad, adding protein and a satisfying bite.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings a warm, caramelized contrast that complements the creamy ranch dressing.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting vessel for scooping up pasta salad, enhancing your dining experience with every bite.
Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing create a refreshing balance, brightening up each plate’s rich flavors.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with sweet seasonal fruits not only adds freshness but also creates a lovely contrast to the creamy elements of the pasta salad.
Iced Tea: A glass of lightly sweetened iced tea offers a refreshing palate cleanser, making each forkful of creamy goodness even more enjoyable.

How to Store and Freeze Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and keeps the salad fresh for easy snacking!

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this pasta salad due to potential texture changes. Freezing can cause the creamy dressing to separate and become grainy after thawing.

Make-Ahead: For meal prep, assemble the salad without dressing and keep refrigerated for 1 day. Add the dressing right before serving to maintain freshness.

Reheating: If desired, you can lightly toss the salad at room temperature before serving, but avoid reheating in the microwave to keep the creamy consistency intact.

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delicious pasta salad to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Swap rotini for gluten-free pasta, like brown rice or corn pasta. You won’t compromise on flavor!
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free ranch dressing and coconut yogurt in place of mayo and sour cream for a creamy base without the dairy.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein, turning it into a hearty meal.
Spice It Up: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick that enhances the creamy flavors beautifully.
Veggie Lover: Incorporate colorful diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrients; it makes the dish even more visually appealing.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to elevate the salad’s flavor profile, bringing a garden-fresh taste to every bite.
Fruit Addition: Consider adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast to the savory elements—such a delightful surprise!
Zesty Twist: A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squirt of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish, refreshing each mouthful.

After you’ve made this fabulous pasta salad, why not explore more scrumptious recipes like our Chicken Salad Discover or a comforting Garlic Butter Pasta? Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad is ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weekdays! You can cook the rotini pasta, blanch the broccoli, and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Store the pasta and vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their textures. When ready to serve, simply combine the pasta, broccoli, sweet peas, and bacon with the dressing, and let it chill for about 30 minutes to blend the flavors. With this strategy, you’ll enjoy a delicious, creamy salad that tastes just as delightful, making weeknight meals a breeze!

Expert Tips for Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad

Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking the rotini; it should be al dente to hold up well in the salad without becoming mushy.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and crunch; blanched broccoli adds a vibrant color and crispiness to your salad.
Chill for Flavor: Ensure you chill the Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad for at least 2 hours to allow the dressing to flavor the ingredients fully.
Consistent Dressing: Adjust the dressing thickness as needed; add milk for a thinner consistency or more sour cream if you prefer it creamier.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins! Omitting bacon or using turkey bacon can lighten things up while keeping it delicious.

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my pasta salad?
Absolutely! For the rotini pasta, choose those with a firm texture and avoid any that appear overly soft or damaged. When selecting broccoli, look for bright green florets without dark spots; this indicates freshness. For sweet peas, fresh or frozen are both perfect, but you should avoid any that are discolored or mushy.

How should I store leftover pasta salad?
Store your Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures it remains fresh and the flavors continue to meld. Always give it a little stir before serving and check for any signs of wilting or discoloration.

Can I freeze the pasta salad for later?
It’s best not to freeze this salad due to its creamy dressing. Freezing can cause the dressing to separate and become grainy after thawing. If you want to prepare it ahead, consider assembling the salad without the dressing and refrigerating it for up to 1 day. Add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.

What if my pasta is mushy?
If your rotini pasta ends up too soft, there are a couple of ways to salvage it. A quick fix is to add more crunchy ingredients, like additional broccoli or fresh vegetables, to balance the texture. Remember for next time: always cook pasta until al dente, which typically means a firm bite in the center.

Is this salad suitable for special diets, like gluten-free?
Definitely! To make your Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad gluten-free, simply substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available at most grocery stores. Make sure to also check your ranch dressing and mayonnaise for gluten-free certifications if you’re avoiding gluten altogether.

What if I want to lighten the dressing?
Very! If you’re looking to lighten your Copycat Ruby Tuesday Ranch Pasta Salad, I recommend swapping the full-fat mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and reducing the amount of sour cream. You can also add a splash of buttermilk or milk to thin the dressing if needed. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!