Ruby Tuesday’s pasta salad is an enigmatic blend of flavors, a dish that manages to balance sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of tanginess. This dish is not just a salad, but a symphony of tastes that takes you on a culinary adventure with every bite. Let’s unravel this mystery and recreate the magic of Ruby Tuesday’s pasta salad at home.

Ingredients

To bring this pasta salad to life, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of mustard
• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 cup of diced red onion
• 1/2 cup of diced celery
• 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup of diced ham or turkey (optional)
• 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook it until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes, but always check the package instructions for the best results. Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool.

Step 2: Preparing the Dressing

While the pasta is cooling, it’s time to prepare the dressing. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients until you get a smooth, well-blended dressing.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced onion, celery, bell pepper, ham or turkey (if using), and the cheese. Pour the dressing over this mixture and toss until all the ingredients are well coated.

Step 4: Chilling the Salad

Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together and intensify, leading to a more enjoyable eating experience.

Serving Suggestions

Ruby Tuesday’s pasta salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. You might also consider pairing it with a crisp white wine for an elegant dinner.

In Conclusion

The Ruby Tuesday pasta salad recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. By following this recipe, you can bring a piece of Ruby Tuesday’s charm into your own kitchen. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, share the joy of this delightful salad with your loved ones.