Have you ever craved that creamy, comforting pasta salad from Ruby Tuesday and wished you could make it at home? You’re in luck! This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad recipe is not only a spot-on copycat it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients.

Whether you’re planning a family BBQ, prepping for a potluck, or just looking for an easy side dish recipe that everyone will love, this creamy, chilled pasta salad is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with rotini pasta, green peas, and a rich, tangy dressing that brings it all together.

Let’s dive into this restaurant-style favorite and show you just how quick and satisfying it can be to recreate a classic at home.

Key Benefits of This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad recipe will be your new go-to. It brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels comforting yet fresh—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Here’s why this recipe is a standout:

 1. Quick and Fuss-Free

This isn’t one of those recipes that require fancy tools or complicated steps. With just rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cook, it’s straightforward and satisfying.

2. Ideal for Meal Prep and Gatherings

This salad holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it a dream for make-ahead lunches, potlucks, or even picnics. The flavors only get better as they mingle, so it’s actually best when made a few hours ahead—or even the night before.

 3. Family-Friendly and Customizable

Kids and adults alike love the mild, creamy taste of this dish. Not a fan of beef? Swap it out for grilled chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative like chickpeas.

 4. Balanced and Satisfying

Thanks to the combination of pasta, protein, and veggies like green peas and onions, this dish is filling without being heavy. It works well as a main dish for lunch or as a side with grilled meats or sandwiches.

 5. A Copycat That Delivers

If you’ve ever had the original at Ruby Tuesday, you know it’s got that nostalgic, comforting flavor. This homemade version captures that same creamy richness and fresh crunch—without needing to dine out

With its crowd-pleasing flavor, easy prep, and endless ways to customize, this pasta salad is one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again. Let’s move on to what you’ll need to bring it to life.

Ingredients for Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

Ready to bring this creamy, satisfying dish to life? Here’s everything you need to recreate this Ruby Tuesday-inspired pasta salad in your own kitchen. These simple, easy-to-find ingredients come together to make a salad that’s full of flavor, texture, and nostalgia.

 Pasta Base

• 3 cups rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
  Rotini is perfect because its twists hold onto the creamy dressing—delicious in every bite!
  

Fresh & Colorful Veggies

• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  They add a pop of sweetness and color. No need to cook—just rinse in warm water to thaw.
  
• ½ cup diced celery
  For that signature crunch and freshness.
  
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  Mild and slightly sweet—adds great contrast to the creamy texture.
  

 Protein Options

• 1 cup diced halal turkey or grilled chicken (optional)
  and family-friendly, lean turkey or chicken works beautifully.
  

 Creamy Dressing Mix

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
  This is the base of the creamy goodness. Choose a high-quality brand for best flavor.
  
• ¼ cup sour cream
  Adds a little tang that balances the richness of the mayo.
  
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  Gives the dressing that signature Ruby Tuesday zing.
  
• 1 tablespoon sugar
  Just a touch to balance the acidity and enhance flavor.
  
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  Season as you go—start light and adjust once the salad is combined.
  

Optional Add-Ins for a Twist

• Chopped boiled eggs for extra richness
  
• Shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy version
  
• Fresh parsley or dill to add a herbal note
  
• Cherry tomatoes, halved, for a pop of color and juiciness
  

Pro Tip:
Once your pasta is cooked, rinse it with cold water and let it drain well. This not only cools it down quickly (ideal for chilled salads) but also prevents it from becoming sticky.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a dish that tastes just like it came from the restaurant—but with your personal touch. Up next: let’s walk through the simple steps to make this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad from scratch!

 How to Make: Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe: Surprisingly Easy

Making this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad at home couldn’t be simpler—and it’s way more rewarding than grabbing takeout. With just a few steps, you’ll have a creamy, crunchy, flavor-packed dish ready to impress at your next meal or gathering.

Let’s walk through the process, step by step:

 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   
2. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions—al dente is best for salads.
   
3. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
   
4. Shake off excess water and let it fully cool in a colander.
   

Pro Tip: Tossing the pasta in a tiny drizzle of olive oil keeps it from sticking together as it cools.

 Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
   
   • ¾ cup mayonnaise
     
   • ¼ cup sour cream
     
   • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
     
   • 1 tablespoon sugar
     
   • Salt and pepper to taste
     
2. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
   

This creamy dressing is the soul of this copycat Ruby Tuesday pasta salad—it’s tangy, a little sweet, and perfectly coats every bite.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with:
   
   • Green peas
     
   • Celery
     
   • Red onion
     
   • Turkey or chicken (optional)
     
   • Any other add-ins you love (like boiled eggs or cheese)
     
2. Pour the dressing over the top and gently mix everything until evenly coated.
   

Use a soft spatula or wooden spoon to avoid breaking the pasta—gentle is key.

 Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better).
   
2. Stir before serving and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if you like.
   

The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it ideal for meal prep or make-ahead potlucks.

This easy pasta salad recipe truly delivers on flavor, nostalgia, and convenience. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you’ve got a dish that tastes like it came straight from Ruby Tuesday’s kitchen—only better because it’s homemade.

Pro Tips and Variations for Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad

Want to take your Ruby Tuesday pasta salad recipe to the next level? Whether you’re prepping it for a summer BBQ, weekday lunches, or a cozy family dinner, these pro tips and easy variations will make your salad even more irresistible—and uniquely yours.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Salad

• Don’t skip the rinse! After boiling, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping. This keeps the texture just right for a chilled salad.
  
• Chill before serving. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps the flavors blend beautifully and makes each bite more flavorful.
  
• Balance the dressing. If the dressing seems too tangy, add a touch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow it out. Want more zing? Try a squeeze of lemon juice or extra vinegar.
  
• Cut ingredients evenly. Dice veggies like celery and red onion into small, consistent pieces. It ensures every forkful has a perfect mix of crunch and creaminess.
  
• Don’t overdress. Start by adding half the dressing and gently toss. Add more as needed. This keeps the salad light instead of soggy.
  

 Easy Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? These tasty additions and swaps help customize your salad without losing that classic Ruby Tuesday charm:

• Protein Power: Add chopped grilled chicken, diced turkey, or even tuna for a heartier meal.
  
• Cheese, please: Mix in shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, or even mozzarella pearls for a creamy boost.
  
• Veggie Up: Try bell peppers, shredded carrots, sweet corn, or chopped spinach for extra color and nutrients.
  
• Herb It Up: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives add bright, fresh flavor.
  
• Spice It Up: Like a kick? A dash of paprika, cayenne, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard adds bold flavor.
  

This pasta salad is endlessly adaptable, which makes it such a crowd favorite. Whether you’re sticking with the classic or putting your own spin on it, you’re guaranteed to end up with a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy.

Serving Suggestions for Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

One of the best things about this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad recipe is how effortlessly it fits into any meal. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back gathering or need a quick side for dinner, this chilled and creamy salad rises to the occasion—deliciously and dependably.

 Perfect for Any Occasion

Here’s how to serve your pasta salad in ways that impress without the stress:

• Backyard BBQs & Picnics: Serve it alongside grilled burgers, chicken, or ribs. It’s cool, creamy, and balances out smoky flavors perfectly.
  
• Weeknight Dinners: Pair it with baked salmon, roasted vegetables, or even meatloaf for a quick and satisfying meal.
  
• Potlucks & Parties: It travels well and tastes even better after chilling, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
  
• Lunchbox Favorite: Pack it in containers for a fuss-free lunch that holds up well in the fridge and delivers big on flavor.
  

Tasty Pairings to Consider

Looking to round out your meal? These combinations work beautifully with the creamy, tangy notes of the pasta salad:

• Grilled kabobs (chicken, shrimp, or veggie)
  
• Toasted garlic bread or dinner rolls
  
• Fresh fruit skewers or melon salad
  
• Crisp green salads with vinaigrette
  
• Chilled lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing sip
  

No matter how you serve it, this easy pasta salad recipe brings comfort, color, and a touch of nostalgia to your table. With just a few simple additions, it transforms into the star of your spread—or the secret side dish everyone asks about.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

By now, you’ve seen just how surprisingly easy and downright delicious this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad recipe can be. With its creamy texture, colorful ingredients, and nostalgic flavor, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple at potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners across the country.

Here’s What Makes It a Must-Try:

• Effortless Prep: Simple ingredients and minimal steps make it perfect even on busy days.
  
• Versatility: Serve it cold or chilled, as a main or side, and pair it with almost anything.
  
• Customizable: Whether you prefer it tangier, cheesier, or packed with extra veggies, it adjusts to your taste effortlessly.
  
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad gets rave reviews every time—it’s creamy, savory, and seriously addictive.
  

There’s something truly comforting about a classic pasta salad, especially when it mirrors the flavors of a restaurant favorite like Ruby Tuesday’s. With this homemade version, you’re not just saving money—you’re also putting your own creative spin on a beloved dish.

So go ahead, whip up a batch today and see just how fast it disappears from the table. You might want to make a little extra—seconds are practically guaranteed!

FAQs: Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

Whether you’re making this Ruby Tuesday pasta salad copycat recipe for a party or just to enjoy during the week, these tips will help ensure every bite is satisfying and full of flavor. If you have more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments—we’re always happy to help you make it perfect!