Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad

When the sun is shining and the barbecue is fired up, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a chilled pasta salad. This Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy dish that combines the goodness of pasta with fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing. It takes just about 30 minutes to prepare, and the creamy texture contrasted against the crunch of the vegetables makes it utterly irresistible.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish for a family dinner. You can easily prepare it in advance, and it stores well in the refrigerator for days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of creamy dressing and fresh veggies creates a delightful contrast in textures.
• Versatile enough to accompany grilled meats or enjoyed on its own.
• Quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for any occasion.
• Chilling time enhances the flavors, offering a refreshing taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta salad.

For the Salad

• 8 oz pasta (rotini or macaroni), cooked and cooled
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For Serving

• Salt and pepper to taste

Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with diced tomatoes.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Greek yogurt can replace sour cream.
• White wine vinegar works instead of red wine vinegar.
• Any pasta shape is suitable.
• Bell peppers can be swapped for any color or type.

How to Make It

Let’s get started on this easy pasta salad.

Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Mix well.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.

Stir the Mixture

Stir until everything is well coated.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, pasta salad doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: not necessary; serve chilled.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly made pasta for optimal texture.
• Chill longer than 30 minutes for more pronounced flavors.
• Adjust the dressing to suit your taste preference.
• Grab seasonal veggies for the freshest taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
• Perfect for a picnic or potluck gathering.
• Pair with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.