Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad

A vibrant medley of colors fills the bowl as you toss together a tantalizing Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad. This refreshing dish comes together in just 30 minutes and is the perfect accompaniment for picnics or potlucks, providing a creamy, satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to brighten up their gatherings with a delightful side dish. Whether it’s for a family barbecue or a lunch prep for the week, this pasta salad is versatile. You can make it ahead of time, and it keeps well in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with freshness from crisp vegetables and soft pasta.
• Easy to make with minimal cooking and prep time.
• Creamy dressing perfectly balances the crunchy ingredients.
• Versatile enough to serve chilled at any occasion.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to prepare this delicious pasta salad.

For the Salad

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/3 cup red onion, diced

For the Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mayonnaise can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Any pasta shape works in place of rotini.
• Use green olives instead of black.
• Swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
• Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor further.

How to Make It

Prepare this delectable pasta salad with these simple steps.

1. Cook Pasta

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

2. Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, carrots, black olives, and red onion.

3. Whisk Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Mix Together

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.

5. Chill

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, it does not freeze well.
Reheat: not recommended; serve cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the salad to chill for longer than 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
• Adjust the dressing ingredients based on your taste preference.
• Fresh ingredients yield the best texture and flavor.
• Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking up the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
• Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or BBQs.
• Pair with crusty bread for a light lunch.