Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad

Total Time: 30 mins Preparation Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

• Servings: 6
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2/3 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• black pepper
• 1 lb rotini pasta (or similar shape)
• 2 -3 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut bite-sized
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch strips
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 4 ounces monterey jack cheese or 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Recipe

• 1 cook pasta in a large pot of salted water. when pasta is almost tender (about 2 minutes from done) add broccoli. return to a boil and continue cooking until pasta is al dente and broccoli is crisp-tender. drain and rinse with cold water. drain again and return to pot; add bell pepper and chill while preparing dressing.
• 2 prepare dressing by combining all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and stirring thoroughly. taste and adjust seasonings.
• 3 when salad is cool enough, add cheese cubes (you don't want them to melt) and dressing. stir well to combine and transfer to a large bowl or casserole dish. serve chilled.