Get ready to experience a pasta salad unlike any other!
Creamy Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad combines the irresistible flavors of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a dreamy avocado ranch dressing you'll want to slather on everything.
Prepare to be amazed!
Key Ingredients
Okay, let's talk ingredients—what you'll need to whip up this amazing dish! First, grab about 2.5 pounds of chicken. I usually go for bone-in thighs and drumsticks; they're juicier! Skip the chicken breast—it'll dry out, and nobody wants that.
Next, you'll want 1 tbsp of olive oil, plus butter—about 1 tbsp or 15g. Don't forget the aromatics: roughly 3 cloves of crushed garlic and one finely chopped onion—yellow, white, or brown will work!
Then, chop up 5 ounces of bacon. If you're feeling fancy, you could use turkey bacon, but where's the fun in that?! Finally, you'll need 2 tsp of fresh thyme leaves or (1 tsp dried). This recipe, unlike the Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad, does not use avocado for creaminess. So, you're ready to cook!
Making the Dressing
Now it is time to whip up the dressing that brings everything in our salad together! I promise, it's super easy and makes all the difference and is the most important thing we do.
First, grab your blender or food processor. We're throwing in one ripe avocado—it's gotta be soft! Then, add 1/2 cup of your favorite ranch dressing, 1/4 cup of milk (this adds creaminess!), two tablespoons of lime juice, a pinch of garlic powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Consider adding some fresh cilantro and garlic to the mix for a flavor that pops. Blend it until it's smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the perfect consistency. Taste it — does it need more lime? More ranch? Adjust as you like! I usually add a little more lime because I like zing! It's all up to what your taste buds like.
Assembling the Salad
Alright, let's get to the fun part: assembling this vibrant fiesta! Grab your largest bowl – the bigger, the better—and let's get started.
First, gently toss your cooked pasta with about half of the creamy avocado ranch dressing. I want it nicely coated, like it's getting a cozy little hug!
Next, sprinkle in your halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion. Think of it like adding bright, cheerful confetti to your pasta canvas. Now, carefully fold in the cheese.
Pour the remaining dressing over the salad and give it one last loving toss. See how yummy that looks?
I like to taste it now and adjust seasoning if needed. Maybe a pinch of salt, or a little more pepper. You're the boss – make it yours!
Tips and Variations
Because I am all about making life easier and tastier, I've got some stellar tips and fun variations to spice up your Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad—because who wants boring pasta, right?!
First, don't overcook your pasta—aim for al dente! Rinse it well under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps it from getting mushy. You can use rotini, farfalle, or penne—whatever floats your boat!
Now, for a flavor boost, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp! About 1 cup of cubed chicken or shrimp is perfect! If you are craving veggies, think about cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers. They will give it a fresh crunch!
Want a spicier kick? A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes—do it! And if you're feeling fancy, crumble some cotija cheese on top! It is your salad – make it your own!
Short Recipe Version
Creamy Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, buttermilk, mayonnaise, ranch dressing mix, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour avocado ranch dressing over the pasta.
- Add cilantro, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g