If you're looking for a delicious and filling pasta salad, try 3/4 cup (47 g) Classic Ranch Pasta Salad. With only 350 calories per serving, it's the perfect option for lunch, dinner or as a side dish.
This pasta salad is not only tasty, but it's also nutritious. It contains 14g of protein, 54g of carbohydrates, 5g of fat, and 5g of fiber. Additionally, it has essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional information, preparation time, allergens, health benefits, recipe variations, storage information, and best pairings of Classic Ranch Pasta Salad.
A serving of Classic Ranch Pasta Salad contains 350 calories, 14g of protein, 54g of carbohydrates, 5g of fat, and 5g of fiber. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium. However, it's worth noting that this pasta salad does contain some sodium and sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Serving Size
The serving size for Classic Ranch Pasta Salad is 3/4 cup (47 g). This size provides enough nutrition to keep you feeling full and satisfied for a few hours. However, you can always adjust the serving size to meet your individual needs and preferences.
Ingredients
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad is made with a combination of pasta, ranch dressing, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. Additional ingredients may include cheese, chicken, or bacon depending on your preference. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that can be customized to suit your taste buds.
Flavor Profile
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad has a creamy and tangy flavor due to the ranch dressing. The vegetables add a crunch to the dish, while the pasta provides a satisfying texture. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that's perfect for the summer months or as a side dish for a barbecue.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for Classic Ranch Pasta Salad is around 20 minutes. Most of this time is spent cutting up the vegetables and cooking the pasta. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you don't feel like spending too much time in the kitchen.
Allergens
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad may contain allergens such as gluten, dairy, or soy depending on the brand of pasta and ranch dressing used. It's important to read the label carefully to ensure that it's safe for you to consume.
Health Benefits
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. Additionally, the vegetables in the dish are sources of various vitamins and minerals that promote overall health and well-being. However, moderation is key as this pasta salad does contain some sodium and sugar.
Recipe Variations
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Some recipe variations may include using different types of pasta, experimenting with different vegetables, or adding a protein such as chicken or bacon. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with this dish!
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to three days, but it's best to consume it within 24-48 hours. Do not leave the pasta salad at room temperature for an extended period of time as it can cause bacterial growth.
Best Pairings
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish for a barbecue. Additionally, it can be served as a standalone dish for lunch or dinner. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of fruit and a glass of water or unsweetened iced tea.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with this dish!
FAQs about Classic Ranch Pasta Salad
1. How many calories does a serving of Classic Ranch Pasta Salad contain?
A serving of Classic Ranch Pasta Salad, which is 3/4 cup (47 g), contains 350 calories.
2. What ingredients are in Classic Ranch Pasta Salad?
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad typically contains pasta, mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and assorted vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
3. Is Classic Ranch Pasta Salad a healthy option?
Classic Ranch Pasta Salad is typically high in calories, fat, and sodium. While it can be a delicious and satisfying side dish, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can I customize Classic Ranch Pasta Salad to make it healthier?
Absolutely! You can make Classic Ranch Pasta Salad healthier by using whole grain pasta, reducing the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream, adding more vegetables, and using a homemade ranch dressing with healthier ingredients.
5. Can Classic Ranch Pasta Salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, Classic Ranch Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, it is best to add the dressing and vegetables just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.