Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound Rotini Pasta
• 1 cup chopped cooked bacon
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped red onion
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Preparation Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Beginner)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, bacon, celery, onion, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

(Per serving, 1/8 of the recipe) * Calories: 450 * Fat: 20g * Protein: 25g * Carbohydrates: 40g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or summer gatherings
• Colorful and vibrant
• Can be customized with different vegetables or toppings

User Comments:

• "This is a classic pasta salad recipe that is always a hit with my family and friends."
• "The bacon and cheddar cheese add so much richness and flavor."
• "I love that it's so easy to make and can be prepared in advance."
• "I sometimes add chopped bell peppers or tomatoes for extra color and crunch."
• "This salad is perfect for a summer cookout or picnic."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use cooked bacon to prevent it from becoming rubbery in the salad.
• If you don't have ranch dressing on hand, you can mix equal parts mayonnaise and buttermilk.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.