Introduction
Buffalo Pasta Salad transforms the classic, tangy heat of buffalo wings into a crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for potlucks and picnics. You get all the flavor you love in a convenient, make-ahead pasta salad that’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with veggies. It’s an easy recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (cayenne pepper sauce)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 packet ranch salad dressing and seasoning mix (1 ounce )
- 4 celery stalks (thinly sliced)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook the 12 ounces of rotini pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to drain completely.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, whisk or shake together the 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, 1/4 cup olive oil, and the entire 1-ounce packet of ranch seasoning mix until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled, drained pasta, the thinly sliced celery stalks, chopped carrots, and chopped green bell pepper.
- Pour the prepared buffalo-ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until all components are evenly and thoroughly coated.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Toss once more before serving.
Variations
- Grilled Chicken Addition: Toss in 2 cups of shredded or cubed grilled chicken breast to turn this side dish into a protein-packed main course.
- Swap the Pasta: Use bowtie (farfalle), penne, or cellentani pasta instead of rotini for a different shape that holds the dressing well.
- Extra Creamy Version: For a richer, creamier texture, fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt along with the dressing.
- Serve Warm: Skip the chilling step and serve the salad immediately after tossing for a warm pasta dish with a buffalo kick.
Tips for Success
- Rinse the Pasta: Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water is crucial to cool it down quickly, preventing it from becoming mushy and absorbing too much dressing while warm.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the pasta soak up the flavorful dressing and the vegetables soften slightly.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salad, start with 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce and add more to taste. For extra heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing.
- Drain Well: Ensure your rinsed pasta and washed vegetables are thoroughly dried. Excess water will dilute the flavorful dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary or recommended. Simply give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
FAQ
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors improve as they meld.
What kind of buffalo sauce should I use?
Use your favorite brand of cayenne pepper-based hot sauce labeled as “Buffalo Sauce,” such as Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce. Avoid using a straight vinegar-based hot sauce like Tabasco, as the flavor profile is different.
My pasta salad seems dry after chilling. What happened?
The pasta continues to absorb the dressing as it sits. Simply stir the salad well before serving. If it still seems dry, you can whisk together a small extra amount of buffalo sauce and olive oil (a 2:1 ratio) and toss it in.
Can I use a different veggie?
Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables based on preference. The recipe is flexible, but the celery and carrots provide the classic buffalo wing accompaniment crunch.
Is there a substitute for the ranch seasoning packet?
For this specific recipe, the seasoning packet is key for the distinct, creamy ranch flavor in the dressing. A homemade blend of dried herbs (dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder) can be used, but you may need to add a touch of buttermilk powder or mayonnaise to mimic the creaminess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free rotini or similar pasta shape. Also, double-check that your brand of buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning mix are certified gluten-free.
