Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta Salad
A refreshing and nutritious pasta salad combining hearty proteins, crisp vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., rotini or penne) Choose pasta that holds dressing well.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced Use pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Add color and flavor.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced For crunch.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing For creaminess.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt Adds creaminess and protein.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella) Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced For garnish and flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions. Toss gently.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
Final Touches
- Stir in shredded cheese, then season with salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so flavors meld.
Notes
Feel free to customize with different vegetables or proteins. This salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.