Description
A fresh and flavorful pasta salad inspired by Ruby Tuesday, combining crisp vegetables, tender rotini pasta, shredded cheddar, and a light, tangy Italian mayonnaise dressing. Perfect as a side dish for summer meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups rotini pasta
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing.
- Prepare Vegetables and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and mayonnaise until well combined to create a creamy, tangy dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
- Toss and Season: Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled.
Notes
- Add broccoli florets or olives for extra texture and flavor variety.
- This salad is best served cold after chilling to enhance freshness.
- Use rotini for optimal dressing adherence, but any pasta shape can be substituted.
- Adjust mayonnaise quantity to preference for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
