Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Dish
Are you searching for a crowd-pleasing pasta salad that’s creamy, flavorful, and reminiscent of Ruby Tuesday’s famous dish? Look no further! This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad recipe is the perfect blend of fresh ingredients, creamy dressing, and savory ham. Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, or simply craving a tasty side dish, this recipe will become your go-to favorite. Plus, we’ll share tips to help you rank higher on Google with this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe
This pasta salad is:
- Quick and Easy : Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make it ideal for busy cooks.
- Customizable : Add your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion : From casual family dinners to outdoor gatherings, this dish fits every setting.
- Flavorful : The combination of ranch seasoning, buttermilk, and mayonnaise creates a rich, tangy dressing.
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to recreate this iconic dish at home.
Ingredients for Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pasta salad:
- 16 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta shape like fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 ½ tablespoons Ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 8 oz cubed ham (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw beforehand)
Optional Add-ins:
- Diced bell peppers
- Chopped celery
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 16 oz rotini pasta and cook until just before al dente—this ensures the pasta holds its texture even after chilling.
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cool water until completely cooled. This step stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. Set the pasta aside and allow it to dry for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Creamy Dressing
While the pasta is cooling, prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 ½ tablespoons Ranch dressing seasoning mix
Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-blended. The buttermilk adds a slight tanginess while keeping the dressing light and creamy.
3. Mix in Frozen Peas
Add the 1 cup frozen peas to the dressing mixture and stir gently. The cold dressing will begin thawing the peas slightly, which enhances their flavor without making them soggy.
4. Combine All Ingredients
Once the pasta has dried, add it to the bowl with the dressing and peas. Toss in the 8 oz cubed ham and mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill for Maximum Flavor
For the best results, cover the pasta salad and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours . This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more robust and satisfying dish. However, if you’re short on time, you can serve it immediately—it will still be delicious!
Tips for Serving Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
- Garnish Creatively : Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
- Pair with Grilled Meats : Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs for a complete meal.
- Make It Ahead : This salad tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
Final Thoughts
This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad recipe captures the essence of the original dish while allowing you to customize it to your liking. With its creamy dressing, tender pasta, and hearty chunks of ham, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following our SEO tips, you can also increase your chances of ranking higher on Google and attracting more traffic to your site.
