Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines tender pasta with a variety of flavorful ingredients. This salad is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish for dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it is quick and easy to prepare. It blends different tastes and textures, making it enjoyable for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham or cheese, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables!
How to Make Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
Making Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad is simple. Follow these easy steps to create a tasty meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
- 1 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12 oz box bowtie pasta
- 7 oz ham steak
- 1 cup cheddar-monterey jack cheese block
- 1 cup cucumber
- 1 cup red onion
- 1 cup grape
Directions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, whole milk, white vinegar, ranch seasoning, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta, diced ham, cubed cheese, chopped cucumber, diced red onion, and halved grapes to the bowl.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are combined and coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled.
How to Serve Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad cold as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Consider adding fresh herbs on top for an extra touch!
How to Store Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
To store Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a little more mayo or milk before serving.
Tips to Make Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to suit your taste.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
- If you want a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily switch out ingredients based on what you have. Try using cooked chicken instead of ham, or replace the cheese with a different variety like feta or mozzarella.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is great to make a day in advance. The flavors will meld even more overnight.
2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
3. Can I freeze Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the pasta and vegetables can become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh!
