This Summer Pasta Salad is the ultimate warm-weather side, cool, creamy, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavor. Tender pasta is tossed with crisp vegetables, savory add-ins, and a generous coating of Daisy Creamy Ranch Dip for a rich, tangy finish that brings everything together beautifully.

Each bite has a perfect balance of textures. Daisy Creamy Ranch Dip adds a smooth, creamy consistency with a fresh, herby taste that elevates this classic dish into something truly crave-worthy.

Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or easy weeknight meals, this pasta salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Make it ahead for effortless entertaining or customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients for a dish that’s always in style.

• Bite-size Dry Pasta (3 cups): Short, sturdy pasta shaped to trap dressing is best for this recipe since they trap the dressing. Cellentani, rotini, and fusilli are ideal since their spiral shape holds the ranch dressing perfectly with elbow, farfalle (bowties), penne, or cavatappi also being good choices.
• Diced Bell Pepper (1 cup): A mixture of red and green bell peppers adds a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing crunch with a sweet, slightly bitter flavor that balances creamy tangy dressing.
• Diced Red Onion (1/2 cup): Provides another pop of color and a sharp, pungent flavor that contrasts to the softness of the pasta. When diced and mixed into the pasta, they tend to lose some of their sharpness for the perfect mellow oniony flavor.
• Diced Celery (1/2 cup): Provides a fresh crunchy texture that contrasts to the softness of the noodles and creaminess of the dressing.
• Chopped Green Onion (1/4 cup): Adds a mild onion flavor and a bright burst of green.
• Finely Shredded Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a savory, tangy contrast to fresh vegetables and creamy dressing. Mozzarella, Cheddar, or Colby-Jack are all great choices. Use what you have on hand.
• Daisy Creamy Ranch Dip (1 cup): Perfectly seasoned with herbs, garlic, and tangy notes, the ranch dip adds a bright, herby kick and smooth, velvety dressing that coats the pasta and vegetables.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides a touch of color and adds a subtle, warm, smoky flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, tangy, sharp flavor to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lends a bright, tangy acidity to the dressing.

• For optimal texture, cook the pasta just until al dente, rinse under cold water. Avoid using fresh pasta for this recipe as it’s too delicate to hold its shape.
• For the best pasta flavor, heavily salt the water (it should taste like the sea).
• Dressing the pasta while warm will help the flavors meld. Adding extra dressing later will help ensure saucy pasta salad.
• Bite-sized pasta shapes provide maximum surface area for sauces and add-ins while remaining easy to eat.
• Chill before serving for optimal flavor (at least one hour).
• Adding cooked proteins, such as chicken or ham, will turn this delicious side into a hearty main.
• Adjust the creaminess by adding more Daisy Creamy Ranch Dip.

1. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
2. Mix drained pasta, bell peppers, onion, celery, green onions, and cheese.
3. Mix ranch dip, paprika, mustard, and vinegar together and then mix into the pasta mixture.
4. Chili before serving for best flavor.