Just quickly blogging a pasta salad recipe! Pasta salads are quick, easy, and delicious for a summer meal. And, they're great to pack for a lunch on the go, whether a picnic, road trip, or fun outing somewhere.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
1 (12 or 16 oz.) package pasta, such as Bowtie or Mostaccioli
3-4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
1 cup mayonnaise (I do 1/2 light & 1/2 real)
3 tablespoons dry ranch dressing mix (the same as a 1.0 oz. package)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup milk, or as needed
about 1 cup sliced grape tomatoes or diced large tomatoes (remove seeds)
about 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (4.5 oz) can sliced black olives, optional
Cook pasta. Drain.
Mix mayonnaise, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and pepper together. Stir in milk until smooth.
Place pasta, bacon, tomatoes, cheese, and olives (if using) in a bowl and toss with dressing to coat. Cover and chill at least 1 hour in refrigerator. Toss with additional milk if the salad seems a little dry right before serving.
**Mix in sliced, grilled chicken if desired.
