This creamy ranch pasta salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or a refreshing summer lunch. It combines tender pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tangy, homemade ranch dressing for a flavorful, satisfying bite in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great for gatherings—feeds a crowd

• Creamy, tangy, and packed with texture

• No cooking beyond boiling pasta

• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein additions

Ingredients

• 2 pounds rotini pasta (tri-color or plain)

• 4 cups cucumber (about 3 small cucumbers), diced

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes (about 25–30 ounces), halved

• 1½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 2 cups mayonnaise

• 2 packets (2.4 ounces each) Hidden Valley ranch restaurant-style dressing mix

Directions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. While the pasta is boiling, dice the cucumbers and halve the cherry tomatoes.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix until smooth.

4. Add the cooled pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently until well coated.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.

Serving Ideas

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or burgers

• Add grilled shrimp or rotisserie chicken for a main-dish version

• Include in picnic baskets or lunchboxes

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or extra Parmesan

Tips & Variations

• Use short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowties for best texture

• For extra crunch, add red onion, bell peppers, or celery

• Lighten it up by using light mayo and low-fat buttermilk

• Make it ahead—flavors deepen after a few hours in the fridge

• Toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad a day ahead?

Yes. In fact, it’s even better when made ahead and chilled for several hours or overnight.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute 2 cups of whole milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Will bottled ranch dressing work?

It will work in a pinch, but using ranch dressing mix with buttermilk and mayo gives a more flavorful and thicker result.

How long will leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I add protein?

Yes. Add cooked bacon bits, grilled chicken, or hard-boiled eggs to turn this into a full meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy ranch pasta salad is a classic comfort food side that delivers fresh flavor, vibrant colors, and hearty satisfaction in every serving. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or just need a quick and easy dish for a family dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite. With minimal prep and major payoff, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.