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Cottage Cheese Ranch Pasta Salad

Cottage Cheese Ranch Pasta Salad: A Creamy, Protein-Packed Treat

Cottage Cheese Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish perfect for summer meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Protein Pasta Regular pasta can be used if preferred.
  • 1 cup Cooked Chicken Breast Cubed or shredded.
  • 4 slices Bacon Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for freshness.
  • 2 cups Romaine Any leafy green can be swapped.
  • 1 cup Cottage Cheese Low-fat or fat-free varieties can be used.
For the Dressing
  • 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning Mix Homemade ranch can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Vinegar can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Dill Pickle Juice Omit for simplicity or use extra lemon juice.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Sweet or smoked paprika can be used.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in your protein pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cooked chicken breast, then add crumbled bacon. Gently toss these ingredients together until evenly distributed.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, mix together the creamy cottage cheese, ranch seasoning mix, lemon juice, and dill pickle juice. Whisk until fully combined.
  4. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and carefully fold until all ingredients are well mixed.
  5. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped romaine lettuce, being careful not to over-mix.
  6. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use high-quality ranch seasoning for the best flavor. This salad can be made a day in advance to enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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