Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad whisks you away to sunny backyard gatherings with a swirl of al dente bowtie noodles bathed in a dreamy ranch-inspired dressing. Every bite delivers crisp cucumber, sweet grape tomatoes, and crunchy red onion, mingling with tender bites of smoky turkey and pockets of melty cheese for a playful dance of textures. The secret reserve of creamy dressing folded in at the end ties it all together, ensuring each forkful bursts with flavor. Whether you’re lounging poolside or hosting a picnic, this chilled pasta fiesta is your new go-to crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors and playful shapes guarantee smiles at every table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- It’s a creamy, dreamy delight that satisfies your taste buds.
- Packed with colorful veggies for a fresh crunch in every bite.
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
- Easy to make ahead, just chill and serve when you’re ready!
- Customizable with your favorite proteins and veggies for endless variations.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Salad |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (chilling) |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Dietary | Not specified |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Chilled |
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients for the delicious Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad!
- ¾ cup mayonnaise – for creamy texture
- ¾ cup whole milk – for richness
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar – to add tang
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning – for flavor
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar – to balance the tanginess
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance flavors
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a bit of spice
- 12 oz bowtie pasta – main ingredient, cooked & drained
- 7 oz smoked uncured ham steak – diced for protein
- 1 cup cheddar-monterey jack cheese – diced for creaminess
- 1 cup cucumber – seeded & diced for crunch
- 1 cup red onion – diced for sweetness
- 1 cup grape tomatoes – halved for freshness
How to Make Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
Preparation time is 15 minutes, cooking time is 10 minutes, and chilling time is at least 30 minutes.
Step 1: Whisk Together Dressing
Whisk together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, ranch seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Reserve ½ cup of the dressing and set aside to thicken.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Cook and drain the bowtie pasta according to the box instructions. Transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Coat Pasta with Dressing
Toss the cooled pasta with 1 cup of the reserved dressing until it is evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Ingredients
Add the diced ham, cheese, cucumber, red onion, and tomato halves to the pasta.
Step 5: Toss Together
Gently toss everything together until uniformly combined.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Chill the pasta before mixing for a refreshing taste.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing option.
- Mix in seasonal veggies for added flavor and color.
- Let the salad sit for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
- Top with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve this Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish at picnics.
- Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.
- Enjoy as a light lunch with a side of fruit salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad with ease:
Storing Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of serving.
- Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.
Freezing Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Leave space for expansion as it freezes.
- Use within 1-2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of milk if it seems dry after reheating.
Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, ranch seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Reserve ½ cup of the dressing and set aside to thicken.
- Cook and drain the bowtie pasta according to the box instructions. Transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Toss the cooled pasta with 1 cup of the reserved dressing until it is evenly coated.
- Add the diced ham, cheese, cucumber, red onion, and tomato halves to the pasta.
- Gently toss everything together until uniformly combined.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 30g |
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a great choice for its shape and texture, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool before mixing it with the dressing and other ingredients.
2. How can I make this salad healthier?
To make this Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the dressing. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrients. Additionally, using a leaner protein, such as grilled chicken or turkey, can help reduce the fat content while still keeping it delicious.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can always add a little more dressing before serving to refresh it.
4. What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. This will give you a similar flavor profile that works well in the dressing for your pasta salad.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this Loaded Bowtie Pasta Salad! It’s a simple, colorful dish that brings back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. With its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate. So grab your fork and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!