Copycat Ruby Tuesday’s Pasta Salad

There used to be a Ruby Tuesday’s right near our house. Oh how we loved to go there for lunch and hit the salad bar. It was the best salad bar around. Ice cold. Always stocked. And lots and lots of great ingredients. And salads. Well, the restaurant closed years ago unfortunately. But I can still enjoy the memories and tastes. Like with this copycat Ruby Tuesday’s pasta salad. Creamy. Fresh. Cold. Crunchy. A wonderful combination of tastes and textures. And oh so easy.

Copycat Ruby Tuesday's Pasta Salad

Cold. Ice Cold.

I think the key to this copycat Ruby Tuesday’s pasta salad is to serve it cold. Very cold. Not like ‘ice is forming on the pasta’ cold but close to it. Our Ruby Tuesday’s always kept their salad bar crazy cold. They had a salad bar attendant that would walk by every once-in-a-while with a handheld temperature gauge and make sure that every single dish was just right. And well-stocked, too. It was like salad bar heaven. You know it was good when I still think about it all these years later.

Also try my copycat of a classic diner-style chef salad.

Copycat Ruby Tuesday's Pasta Salad

Copycat Ruby Tuesday’s Pasta Salad

Inspired by a recipe from Stress Baking
Easy and delicious!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Get happy time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Pasta Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 325 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta per the package instructions. Rinse it with cold water and drain well. Set aside until completely cooled.
  • In a very large bowl, combine the Ranch dressing, mayonnaise, salt and pepper.
  • Add the green pepper, ham and peas. Stir.
  • Add in the pasta and stir to combine. Make sure everything gets coated well in the dressing.
  • Cover and refrigerate.
  • Serve cold.

Notes

Stir before serving. If the salad gets too dry, stir in some more Ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 654mgPotassium: 185mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 97IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword copycat, pasta salad
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Copycat Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Coleslaw

This copycat Dickey’s Barbecue Pit coleslaw is my kind of coleslaw. Creamy without being too much so. A little vinegary without killing me. And a little sweet without being over-the-top sweet. I can eat it by itself. And I can eat it heaped up on a smoked BBQ chicken sandwich. All day long, too.

Copycat Dickey's Barbecue Pit Coleslaw
Copycat Dickey's Barbecue Pit Coleslaw

Life’s Complicated Enough

This isn’t some high-falutin’ coleslaw recipe. It’s not supposed to be. Just simple, good flavors. And good crunch. I’ve had some good slaws that have lots and lots of ingredients. This ain’t that. You want to change it up, go for it. The most I’d do is maybe add a pinch of celery seed but that’s just because I’m addicted to celery seed in slaws. I don’t think that’d make this copycat Dickey’s Barbecue Pit coleslaw fancy, though. At least, I hope not!

This slaw reminds me a bit of my copycat of Marzetti’s Classic Original slaw dressing.

Copycat Dickey's Barbecue Pit Coleslaw

Copycat Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Coleslaw

This isn't some high-falutin' coleslaw recipe.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 254 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Place all but the slaw mix into a medium bowl.
  • Whisk until well-combined.
  • Add the slaw mix and stir until coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

Stir again before serving.
Add a few pinches of celery seed for a flavorful twist!

Nutrition

Calories: 254kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 2gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 487mgPotassium: 192mgFiber: 3gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 117IUVitamin C: 39mgCalcium: 44mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, creamy
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Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

I am a huge fish-and-chips fan. So when we recently ate at the Aquarium Restaurant in the Opry Mills shopping center in Nashville, Tennessee, that’s what I ordered. And of course I had it with slaw on the side. But not any ordinary slaw. This one had some kick. A spicy kick. And the dressing was different. Deeper. Tastier. After a few tastes it occurred to me that it was a balsamic vinaigrette. “Perfect!” I thought. And as soon as we got home, I made an almost-copycat just-as-great spicy firecracker slaw! Same great kick, same great vinaigrette!

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

A Slaw With A Spicy Kick

My version of spicy firecracker slaw is very close to the one we had at the Aquarium Restaurant. I think theirs was made with a white balsamic vinegar, which I didn’t have. I had to substitute dark, which of course made my slaw darker. I also added a spicy mustard, which I’m not sure the original contained. I think so, so I added it. Either way, theirs is great. And mine is great. So no one is wrong!

Also try my tangy coleslaw.

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

Yeah, it's spicy!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 207 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Place everything except for the coleslaw mix into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and let cool completely.
  • Add the slaw mix to a medium bowl.
  • Drizzle with the sauce and toss or stir to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 324mgPotassium: 168mgFiber: 2gSugar: 37gVitamin A: 85IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, spicy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Could this be it? Could I have found the perfect Italian dressing? For years I’ve searched. Only to find dressings that were too vinegary. Or too thin. Or too herby. Always ‘too’ something. Well, this copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian salad dressing was perfect for me. Nothing too strong. The perfect consistency. This is the first Italian salad dressing I could actually just drink. This was a real winner for me!

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Give It A Rest

The recipe for this copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian salad dressing calls for you to let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. The dressing needs that time to ‘get happy’. The dry seasonings need to rehydrate. Flavor things. If you rush it you won’t get dressing happiness.

If you have the time, I’d like it rest overnight before serving. Always give it a stir or shake before serving. And if you’ve refrigerated the dressing, set it out on the countertop at least 30 minutes before using. Cold dressings don’t mix as well, specially if they contain oils that solidify in the fridge.

Also try a copycat of the Texas Roadhouse honey French dressing.

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Inspired by a recipe from Full Form Today
Incredibly delicious and smooth.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 4 cups
Calories 1201 kcal

Ingredients
  

First Step Ingredients

Second Step Ingredients

Third Step Ingredients

Final Step Ingredients

Instructions
 

First Step

  • Add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, granulated garlic, white and black peppers, onion powder and salt and kosher salt to a medium bowl. Whisk to combine.

Second Step

  • Add the dried oregano, basil, and minced garlic. Whisk to combine. Let mixture rest for 10 minutes.

Third Step

  • Add the mustard and honey. Whisk thoroughly.

Final Step

  • While whisking, slowly drizzle in the oil. Continue whisking until the dressing shows no signs of separating.
  • Taste and add more salt if desired then whisk some more.
  • Serve immediately.
  • Refrigerate any leftovers. Let come to room temperature before serving, shaking or stirring first.

Notes

This recipe makes a HUGE batch of dressing. Feel free to cut it in half. Or, use any leftover dressing as a great marinade for chicken or steak!
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 1201kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 2gFat: 110gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 63gMonounsaturated Fat: 25gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 1181mgPotassium: 172mgFiber: 2gSugar: 52gVitamin A: 38IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword copycat, Italian
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Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pumpernickel Croutons

Sadly, the Ruby Tuesday’s that was near our home is long gone. Oh, how I do miss their salad bar. It was always well-stocked and super-cold. It was a happy time when I walked up with my plate and started to craft my salad creation. One of my favorite things on the bar, and the crowning piece for my salads, were the croutons. Perfectly crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, I would mound them up on my plate. True. Well, now I have to make my copycat Ruby Tuesday pumpernickel croutons instead. In addition, I love them just as much!

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pumpernickel Croutons

Tasty Memories

I’m pretty sure the croutons at Ruby Tuesday weren’t baked. I think that’s ok. However, and more importantly, these taste like the croutons I remember. And that was my goal of these copycat Ruby Tuesday pumpernickel croutons: to reproduce that memory.

I could only find a lighter pumpernickel the day I made these. The ‘real’ ones used a darker bread. Either way, you’ll love them.

Also try my copycat of the croutons from Outback Steakhouse.

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pumpernickel Croutons

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pumpernickel Croutons

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and oh so good.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 cups
Calories 693 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups pumpernickel bread cut into 1/2″ cubes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus a bit more

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Place breadcrumbs into a large bowl.
  • Place butter into a small bowl. Stir in the garlic powder and salt.
  • Pour butter mixture over breadcrumbs and toss or stir gently to coat.
  • Pour bread out onto a large baking sheet. Spread out evenly.
  • Bake for 10 minutes and check for crispiness. Bake longer if needed, but check every few minutes or so. The croutons will get crunchier as they cool so take them out before they are totally crunchy.
  • Remove. Sprinkle with salt if desired.
  • Let cool before serving.

Notes

Thick-cut pumpernickel makes for the best croutons.

Nutrition

Calories: 693kcalCarbohydrates: 113gProtein: 21gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 1703mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 15gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 165mgIron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword copycat, croutons
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Copycat Famous Dave’s Creamy Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

Do you make ‘the face’ when you taste horseradish? You know the one. The one where your mouth puckers up and your face gets all scrunched in. Well, if you do you’re going to make it big time with this copycat Famous Dave’s Creamy Sweet and Sour coleslaw. That’s assuming you make it ‘full power’, with the two tablespoons of prepared horseradish in the recipe. No one, and I do mean NO ONE, is going to feel any different about you if you use less. This is a great creamy slaw. With all of the horseradish it has a very sharp taste, but that fades away to creamy sweetness. It’s a different experience, and a really great change from the usual just creamy and sweet coleslaw.

Copycat Famous Dave's Creamy Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

The Perfect Sandwich Topper

I found this copycat Famous Dave’s Creamy Sweet and Sour coleslaw to be pretty good on its own. But I liked it much more on top of a pulled pork sandwich. The sinus-clearing hit of horseradish contrasted perfectly with the BBQ sauce I used on my sandwich. And the sweetness of the slaw tamed some of the heat in the sauce, too. It doesn’t have to be a BBQ sandwich either. You can put this slaw on a cold cut sub. Or a chicken sandwich. Anywhere you want a good, in-your-face hit of horseradish, this is the slaw for you.

Also try some diner-style coleslaw.

Copycat Famous Dave's Creamy Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

Copycat Famous Dave’s Creamy Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

Creamy. Sweet. And a big kick of horseradish in every bite.
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Place the coleslaw mix in a large bowl.
  • Whisk the remaining ingredients in a small bowl until combined. Add to the coleslaw mix.
  • Stir to mix well.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 2gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 25gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 533mgPotassium: 179mgFiber: 3gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 123IUVitamin C: 33mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, tangy
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Copycat Classic Diner Chef Salad

I wanted a salad that would harken back to earlier times. When I could walk into a diner, order a burger, some fries, and a salad. This copycat classic diner chef salad reminds me of the salads the waitress would grab out of the little fridge on the counter by the pass to the kitchen. They were usually behind glass doors that slid open. Covered in plastic wrap, they were made fresh every morning. And they always hit the spot. Just like this one. And I always got it with Ranch dressing. Even though they had French. Maybe there were other dressing choices but my brain always stopped once it heard ‘Ranch’.

Copycat Classic Diner Chef Salad

Diners And Salad Bars

Whenever I get lucky enough to find a decent salad bar at a restaurant, which is kinda rare these days, I end up making a copycat classic diner chef salad. Not just because it’s easy. It has all of my favorite things on it. From fresh mushrooms to ham to bacon to green onions. For me, it’s the perfect combination.

There used to be a Ruby Tuesday restaurant by our house that always had the ultimate salad bar. And some of the best Ranch dressing around. I sure miss it. But to make up for it being gone, and there being no good diners near me, I made these at home.

It might seem a bit odd, but I think freshly-shredded cheese is a must on a salad. You want fresh vegetables, why not fresh cheese? That pre-shredded stuff isn’t as creamy. And it’s not as tasty. So I always take the few extra minutes to shred my own.

Also try my copycat McDonald’s chef salad.

Copycat Classic Diner Chef Salad

Copycat Classic Diner Chef Salad

Inspired by a recipe from Berly’s Kitchen
The perfect classic salad.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 251 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce cleaned, cored, sliced or shredded as desired
  • 1 ounce cheddar cheese shredded
  • 12 cherry tomatoes rinsed, halved
  • 1/2 small onion white, red, or sweet, sliced into rings
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms rinsed, sliced
  • 1 medium carrot peeled, sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 medium cucumber peeled, sliced
  • 4 large eggs hard-boiled, peeled, halved
  • 4 slices bacon cooked, chopped
  • 4 green onions rinsed, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup ham diced
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Assemble your salad by dividing the lettuce between four plates.
  • Add remaining ingredients and season well.
  • Serve with your favorite dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 251kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 213mgSodium: 393mgPotassium: 516mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3622IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 117mgIron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword classic, salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Copycat Hard Rock Cafe Coleslaw

The last Hard Rock Cafe we visited, in the Mall of America, is long gone. That is too bad since we loved the cool music-themed items. And the food. But hey, at least we can make a copycat Hard Rock Cafe coleslaw at home now. This is a big favorite in our house. It’s easy to make. Like crazy easy. And delicious. Creamy. A little sweet. Crunchy. It’s my kind of coleslaw.

Copycat Hard Rock Cafe Coleslaw

Good Things Take Time

As easy as this copycat Hard Rock Cafe coleslaw is to make, it cannot be rushed. It needs some quality time in the fridge for the flavors to get perfect. And they will. Sure, you can give it a taste or two moments after making it, and you’ll like it. But to love it, give it that overnight ‘soak’. Or more. Up to two days for maximum coleslaw love. It’s worth it.

Also try my fantastic copycat of Marzetti’s Classic Original Slaw dressing!

Copycat Hard Rock Cafe Coleslaw

Copycat Hard Rock Cafe Coleslaw

A deliciously creamy, slightly sweet slaw that is one of my favorites!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 day
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together all of the ingredients except for the coleslaw mix in a large bowl until smooth.
  • Add the coleslaw mix and stir to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 24-48 hours.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 1gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 17gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 16mgSodium: 256mgPotassium: 132mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 99IUVitamin C: 26mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 0.4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, creamy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Hard Eight BBQ Coleslaw

There are a lot of Texas BBQ joints on my bucket list. Hard Eight BBQ is one of them. I’d get there the minute they opened and stay until they closed that day. And it’d be one of the best days of my life. And guess what? I’d even eat their coleslaw while I’m there. Besides, man doesn’t live on brisket and smoked sauce alone, does he?

Hard Eight Coleslaw

Oh, The Dressing!

This Hard Eight coleslaw is vinegar-based. Not that creamy stuff you might be used to. And it’s a bit sweet, too. And as much as it’s great on the side, let me tell you, it’s amazing on anything grilled. I grilled up some chicken thighs, slapped them on some buns, and pilled on the slaw. And nothing else. The slaw was fantastic. I didn’t need anything else. The crunchy, the heat… just perfect. Next time you’re making a sandwich, burger or whatever, and you’re thinking you need maybe a little lettuce on it, stop. Make this slaw and use it instead. You’ll be more than happy you did. It’s about flavor and this coleslaw brings it.

Also try my Carolina coleslaw.

Hard Eight Coleslaw

Hard Eight BBQ Coleslaw

It's about flavor and this coleslaw brings it.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 14
Calories 117 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the coleslaw

  • 2 pounds cabbage shredded or sliced thin, or substitute 2 bags slaw mix
  • 8 ounces pimentos drained, chopped
  • 2 cups green bell pepper seeded, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno seeded, minced (optional)

For the dressing

Instructions
 

  • Combine all of the coleslaw ingredients in a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients until the sugar has dissolved. Pour over the slaw and stir to coat well.
  • Let set at least 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 117kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.02gSodium: 514mgPotassium: 184mgFiber: 2gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 584IUVitamin C: 59mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, spicy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Copycat Pizza Hut Creamy Italian Salad Dressing

Boy oh boy did this copycat Pizza Hut creamy Italian salad dressing ever bring back memories. I was addicted to this dressing, especially in my college years when you could pick up a personal pan pizza or a hot sub and a side salad for cheap. I’d always ask for extra dressing. I could drink this stuff. I was so happy that this recipe came as close to the original as I’ve found. The right flavor. And the right consistency.

Copycat Pizza Hut Creamy Italian Salad Dressing

Ranch and Xanthan Gum for the Win

There are two keys to making this copycat Pizza Hut cream Italian dressing as close to the original as possible. The first is to use a quality Ranch dressing. One that’s full of flavor. For me, that means Hidden Valley Ranch original. The second is xanthan gum. Found in just about every store-bought food item you can find, it’s a thickener. It’s what gives this dressing that great thickness. A little goes a long ways, so just add the little amount the recipe calls for and let it do its thing.

This dressing is great on a sub sandwich too. Like really great!

This dressing is perfect on a classic diner chef salad!

Copycat Pizza Hut Creamy Italian Salad Dressing

Copycat Pizza Hut Creamy Italian Salad Dressing

Deliciously creamy. A truly wonderful dressing!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 252 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Place all but the xanthan gum into a food processor or blender.
  • Process until smooth and combined.
  • Add the xantham gum and process a little more until thick.

Notes

Stir dressing before serving. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 252kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 345mgPotassium: 59mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 286IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 0.2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword copycat, dressing, Italian
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!