Description
So, what exactly is Creamy Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad? At its core, it’s a chilled pasta dish featuring cooked pasta mixed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red bell peppers, and red onions, all coated in a homemade creamy avocado ranch dressing. The dressing is the real hero here—made from ripe avocados blended with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lime juice, and a blend of herbs and spices that give it that classic ranch flavor with a healthy twist. Optional add-ins like shredded cheese or fresh herbs elevate it further, making it customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne work best)
1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
2–3 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Avocado Ranch Dressing:
1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2–3 tablespoons milk or water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Make the Dressing:
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayo), lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth. Add milk or water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cheese (if using).
Add Dressing:
Pour avocado ranch dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top.
Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for best flavor, or serve immediately.
Notes
This rich and creamy pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch. For added crunch and flavor, top with toasted nuts, crispy bacon bits, or fresh cherry tomatoes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad / Pasta
- Method: Boiling / Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: None
Keywords: Creamy Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad