pasta salad from the box is really good for hot summer months when you need something to go with dinner in a pinch.  i decided to kick it up a notch and make it from scratch.  it’s my first pasta salad (other than making mom’s pasta crab salad, which is something that i’ll have to add soon!)

• 1 12 oz. box whole wheat pasta
• 10 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
• 1 c mayo
• 1 pkg. ranch dressing mix
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 c milk
• 1 pkg. cherry tomatoes
• 1 c shredded cheddar cheese

1. bring a large pot of water to boil and cook pasta until al dente.  drain and rinse with cool water.
2. in a large bowl, mix mayo, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder and pepper.  stir in milk until smooth.
3. 15 min. before serving, place pasta, bacon, tomato, cheese and coat with dressing. keep chilled until ready to serve.

enjoy!