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Easy 5-Ingredient Cucumber Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Picnics

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A quick and refreshing pasta salad combining crisp cucumber, creamy ranch dressing, and tender rotini pasta, perfect for summer picnics and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
  • 3/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 9–11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse immediately under cold running water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Shake off excess water and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, peel and dice 1 large cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice 2 green onions, including the green tops.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cucumber, and green onions. Pour in 3/4 cup of ranch dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill and sprinkle it over the salad. Toss lightly again to distribute the herbs without bruising them.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture is best. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Pat cucumbers dry to avoid watering down the dressing. Add fresh dill just before chilling or serving for best flavor. Toss gently to keep ingredients intact. Chill at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. If pasta absorbs too much dressing after chilling, stir in a little more ranch before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber pasta salad, ranch pasta salad, summer picnic recipes, easy pasta salad, 5-ingredient salad

Find it online: https://forkmila.com/easy-5-ingredient-cucumber-ranch-pasta-salad-recipe-for-summer-picnics/