Ingredients for Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- Crisp Bacon
- Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing
- Black Olives
- Salt And Pepper
How to Make Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool quickly. Set aside.
- While pasta cooks, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and crumble. Set aside.
- Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, broccoli, ranch dressing, mayonnaise (if using), red onion (if using), and cheddar cheese (if using).
- Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to your preference.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. This salad tastes even better the next day!
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
67 g
Sugar
11g
Fat
51g
Carbs
8g
