The first time I tasted Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad, I was instantly hooked by its creamy texture and delightful blend of flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, perfectly suited for summer picnics or cozy family dinners. Imagine the hearty rotini noodles intertwined with vibrant green peas and savory bites of ham, all enveloped in a rich, tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds. This quick, copycat version of the classic salad can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something both satisfying and easy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a delicious side at your next barbecue, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this beloved restaurant dish in your own kitchen!
Why Is Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad a Must-Try?
Unmatched Flavor: The creamy dressing blends perfectly with the savory bites of ham and the sweetness of peas for a flavor explosion.
Quick & Simple: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Versatile Base: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or additional vegetables, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Crowd-Pleaser: This pasta salad is always a hit at picnics and potlucks, making it the perfect addition to your gathering.
Comfort Food Vibes: With its hearty rotini and creamy texture, this dish embodies the warmth of classic American comfort food—ideal for sharing!
Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to recreate this delicious dish!
For the Pasta
- Rotini Noodles – Serve as the hearty base for your Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad; other small pasta shapes can work too.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – Adds rich creaminess and tang to your salad; consider Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- Buttermilk – Enhances the flavor richness; regular milk can substitute if buttermilk isn’t on hand.
- Dried Ranch Seasoning – Imparts a savory depth that complements the other flavors; homemade can replace store-bought for a fresh take.
- Garlic Salt – Provides aromatic garlic essence; swap with garlic powder and adjust salt as necessary.
- Black Pepper – Adds a subtle heat and enhances overall flavor.
For the Mix-Ins
- Frozen Peas – Bring a pop of color and sweetness; keep them frozen until mixing for the best texture.
- Ham (diced) – Introduces protein and flavor richness; you can opt for cooked chicken or turkey for a different variation.
How to Make Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
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Cook Rotini: Boil 1 pound of rotini noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring they stay firm and don’t become mushy.
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Prepare Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups mayonnaise, ¼ cup buttermilk, 2 tablespoons dried ranch seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
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Combine Ingredients: In another large bowl, mix the cooked rotini, 10 ounces of frozen peas, and 8 ounces of diced ham, making sure everything is evenly distributed for the best flavor and texture.
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Mix Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and gently stir until every piece is coated, creating that delightful and flavorful blend reminiscent of the restaurant classic.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld. Give it a good stir before serving for a fresh finish.
Optional: Add diced green peppers for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the pasta and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rotini noodles, rinse them under cold water, and refrigerate in an airtight container. Mix the dressing ingredients together and store it in a separate container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything with the frozen peas and diced ham and allow the salad to chill for at least one hour, letting those flavors meld just like the original. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, creamy pasta salad that’s just as delightful as when made fresh!
Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delicious pasta salad to match your taste preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or a dairy-free mayo for a creamy yet lighter version that’s still full of flavor.
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Veggie-Loaded: Toss in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for an extra crunch and vibrancy that brings this dish to life.
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Protein Punch: Swap the ham for cooked shrimp or chickpeas, adding a delightful twist while keeping the salad hearty and satisfying.
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Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate a blend of cheeses like shredded cheddar or feta to take the flavor up a notch—each adds a unique zing!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat that’ll thrill any spice lover.
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No-Mayo Option: Use Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing in place of mayo for a lighter alternative that retains creaminess and freshness.
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Grain Swap: Try substituting rotini with quinoa or farro for a different texture and a nutritious uplift to your salad.
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Sweet Surprise: Throw in some chopped grapes or apples for a sweet contrast that beautifully balances the savory elements in your pasta salad.
Expert Tips for Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
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Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Rinse Your Pasta: Always rinse the rotini after boiling to prevent it from becoming soggy—this ensures a perfect texture for your Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad.
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Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: Using frozen peas is key as they thaw quickly and maintain their vibrant color; please avoid overcooking them.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add in veggies like bell peppers or substitute the ham for chicken, but keep the overall balance of flavors intact.
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Measure Accurately: Use the specified amounts for mayonnaise and buttermilk to achieve the ideal creaminess without it becoming overly rich.
What to Serve with Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad?
Imagine a table filled with comforting flavors and vibrant dishes that bring everyone together for a delightful meal.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken provides a savory, protein-packed complement to the creamy pasta salad, elevating your overall dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread delivers a satisfying crunch and makes for the perfect vehicle to scoop up that delicious salad.
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Classic Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta salad, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Seasoned Roasted Vegetables: Colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini roasted to perfection provide a delightful addition of freshness and nutrition to the plate.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and fruity side brings a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages enhance the meal, providing a cool and thirst-quenching experience alongside your pasta dish.
Elevate your Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad feast by pairing it with these delicious accompaniments!
How to Store and Freeze Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Fridge: Keep your pasta salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving to redistribute the creamy dressing.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad, as the texture may be compromised once thawed.
Leftover Usage: If you have leftovers, consider transforming them into a sandwich filling or adding them to a wrap for a tasty lunch option.
Freshness Tip: For the best flavor, consume the salad within a few days of preparation to enjoy its creamy goodness at its peak.
Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of rotini noodles should I use for the Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using classic rotini noodles as they provide the perfect structure for the creamy dressing. However, if you prefer a different shape, small pasta varieties like fusilli or farfallini can work wonderfully too!
How should I store any leftovers of the Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad?
Very simple! Store your pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s a good idea to give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute that luscious, creamy dressing.
Can I freeze the Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad. Freezing can compromise the creamy texture of the dressing and lead to an unappetizing consistency once thawed. I often recommend savoring it fresh for the ultimate flavor experience!
How do I know when my ingredients are ripe or fresh enough?
For optimal freshness, look for vibrant, bright green peas without any dark spots. When it comes to ham, choose the freshest option from the deli, ideally sliced just before use, to enhance the flavor of your salad.
Is there a way to lighten up the Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad?
Certainly! You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and using cooked chicken or turkey instead of ham can also reduce the calorie count while keeping the dish delicious.
Creamy Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil 1 pound of rotini noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups mayonnaise, ¼ cup buttermilk, 2 tablespoons dried ranch seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
- In another large bowl, mix the cooked rotini, 10 ounces of frozen peas, and 8 ounces of diced ham, ensuring even distribution for flavor and texture.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and gently stir until every piece is coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld. Stir before serving.