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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the savory richness of crispy bacon, the freshness of vibrant vegetables, and the creamy indulgence of ranch dressing. This pasta salad stands out for its mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing for a family gathering, or attending a potluck with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its balanced ingredients appeal to both adults and children alike, making it a favorite at any table.

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Discover the irresistible flavor of Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for summer picnics, family gatherings, or potlucks. This delightful salad combines crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing for a satisfying bite that appeals to everyone. It's easy to prepare in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks. With endless variations and customizable ingredients, this pasta salad can cater to any taste. Enjoy a delicious and refreshing meal that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)

6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente tenderness. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooling, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, allowing it to cool before crumbling it into small pieces. Meanwhile, chop the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely dice the red onion, and coarsely chop the fresh parsley.

      Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled, drained pasta along with the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley.

        Add the Dressing: Drizzle the ranch dressing over the assembled pasta salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined, ensuring that every component is evenly coated in the dressing.

          Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad as per your preference. Mix once more to incorporate the seasoning and adjust as necessary for flavor.

            Chill: Cover the salad using plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step will enhance the flavors as they meld together.

              Serve: Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss to refresh the ingredients. Enjoy this creamy and savory Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad as a delightful side dish or a satisfying main course!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large bowl or individual portions, garnished with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for an appealing touch.