Easy Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe with Italian Dressing, Ham, and Cheddar – Perfect for Summer Gatherings

Pasta salads are a staple of summer gatherings, offering a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. One of the most versatile and crowd-pleasing versions is the Rotini Pasta Salad. Bursting with flavor and vibrant colors, this recipe combines the goodness of rotini noodles with a zesty Italian dressing, ranch seasoning, and an array of fresh vegetables and savory ingredients. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Rotini Pasta Salad that serves six people, double for more, ensuring your next gathering is a hit!

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces of rotini noodles
• 24 fl oz of zesty Italian salad dressing
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning
• 2 tablespoons of salad supreme seasoning
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup of grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1 or 2 cups of cubed ham

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rotini Noodles:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the rotini noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent them from sticking together.

2. Combine Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rotini noodles with the zesty Italian dressing, diced cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, shredded mild cheddar cheese, and cubed ham.
• Sprinkle the salad supreme seasoning and ranch seasoning over the ingredients in the bowl. This adds a burst of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the salad.

3. Toss:

• Gently toss everything together until the noodles and ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure all the flavors are well distributed throughout the salad.

5. Chill and Serve:

• Once the pasta salad is thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
• Before serving, give the salad a final toss to recombine any dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl.
• Garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped herbs if desired.

6. Enjoy!

• Serve the Rotini Pasta Salad as a delicious side dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light and satisfying meal on its own.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, this Rotini Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. By following this simple recipe and using quality ingredients like fresh vegetables, flavorful seasonings, and tangy dressings, you can create a dish that's not only delicious but also nutritious. So, gather your friends and family, whip up a batch of this mouthwatering pasta salad, and make your next summer gathering one to remember!