Tasty Thursday #9

Hosted by Trista at The Pumkin Patch.

This week is BBQ/Grillin' Edition
Since hubby does all the grillin, I don't have any meat recipes, so I thought I'd go with a great side dish. This is great for grillin', picnics, family gatherings or anytime!

I love pasta salad. But there are things I don't like about some, so a while back I was looking for a pasta salad that would suit me. I decided to take what I liked from some and leave other things out, and this is what I came up with. It is very simple and basic, but has always been a crowd pleaser. You could easily add in other things you like, or leave something out to suite your taste!


Easy Pasta Salad

1 box rotini pasta (I like to use the tri-color)
1 bunch broccoli, cleaned and cut into small florets
Tomatoes, diced (I usually use 2 large tomatoes)
Shredded cheddar cheese - at least 2 cups
1 16 oz. bottle Ranch dressing

Cook pasta until just tender. Drain and shock in ice bath. (DO NOT OVERCOOK! It will end up very mushy!)
Once pasta is cooled, mix all ingredients in large bowl.
You can eat it right away, however I think it tastes best when refrigerated for several hours or overnight.

I always try to make this the day before or early in the morning for later that day. When you are ready to serve, stir it well. You may wish to add a little more dressing at this point, as some will be absorbed. I usually end up adding a little more.