Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Primavera Pasta Salad

Creamy Primavera Pasta Salad That Dances with Flavor

Creamy Primavera Pasta Salad is a vibrant, satisfying side dish that combines fresh vegetables and tender pasta with rich dressing flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta A twisty shape that holds the creamy dressing beautifully.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Broccoli Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup Carrots Introduces sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Contributes sweetness and bright color.
  • ½ cup Red Onion Offers a sharp flavor that balances the creaminess.
For the Dressings
  • 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix Delivers a creamy, tangy flavor.
  • 1 packet Italian Dressing Mix Infuses herby, savory notes into the dish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water.
  2. While the pasta is still warm, sprinkle the dry Italian dressing mix evenly over it. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix with the recommended amount of water or milk as stated on the packet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Finely chop the broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled, seasoned pasta and the chopped vegetables. Gently fold them together.
  6. Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
  7. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Once chilled, give the salad a gentle stir to reincorporate any settled dressing, then transfer it to a serving bowl.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, season the pasta while warm and chill before serving. Use fresh vegetables for maximum taste.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!