Million Dollar Pasta Salad
A vibrant and versatile pasta salad loaded with mini penne pasta, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 ounces Mini Penne Pasta Substitute regular penne or fusilli if unavailable.
- 6 slices Bacon Turkey bacon or smoked tempeh can be used for a lighter version.
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Mix different colors for visual appeal.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers Use a mix of colors for a vibrant salad.
- 1/2 cup Scallions Finely chopped red onion can be used instead.
- 1/4 cup Red Onions Sliced thin for balanced flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Basil) Can substitute with dill or cilantro.
- 1 cup Ranch Dressing Homemade options with Greek yogurt and herbs are great too.
- 1 cup Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese Can use crumbled feta or goat cheese for a lighter touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil.
- Cook the mini penne until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- Dice the bacon and sauté it in a pan over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes until crispy. Allow it to cool.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, finely chopped scallions, sliced red onions, and fresh herbs.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss gently until well coated.
- Sprinkle your choice of cheese on top, toss lightly to integrate, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Serving
- Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Avoid freezing due to the dressing.