Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and crisp veggies tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners, this hearty and flavorful salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the ultimate comfort food!

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Serving size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 950mg

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad:

• 300g (10 oz) rotini or penne pasta
• 225g (8 oz) cooked chicken breast, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 100g (1/2 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 100g (1/2 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
• 60g (1/4 cup) red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Ranch Dressing:

• 120ml (1/2 cup) ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• 60ml (1/4 cup) sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method of Preparation:

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon:

1. If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 75°C / 165°F). Let rest, then dice into small pieces.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Dressing:

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. Assemble the Pasta Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
2. Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Culinary Success:

1. Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to keep it from sticking and to cool it down quickly for the salad.
2. Make it your own by adding additional veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or avocado for extra color and nutrients.
3. Cook the bacon until extra crispy to add a satisfying crunch to the salad.
4. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream in the dressing.
5. Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together even better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just be sure to stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly in the fridge.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option for this recipe.
3. How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge? It will last up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I make this pasta salad gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
5. What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar? You can use shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy elements, making it a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this salad will have your guests coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a standalone dish for a hearty meal.