Layered Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is an absolute summer classic in our book. No BBQ, picnic, or potluck would be complete without it. There are countless delicious versions out there, but if you’re looking to dress up this summer staple, a Layered Pasta Salad is a must-try! Vibrant layers of pasta, veggies, and ham are mixed with a tangy dressing for a salad that is sure to impress family and friends alike! It’s a make-ahead dish, so you have one less thing to worry about when entertaining or trying to get out the door to your event.

The only step that requires more than chopping will be cooking that pasta. We’ve gone with a classic macaroni noodle, but any similarly sized pasta will work! Boil your pasta just until al dente (no one wants a mushy salad), then drain and rinse the pasta. Allow it to fully cool before you begin assembling the salad so it doesn’t all stick together. In the meantime, chop the other veggies and prepare the creamy dressing. We recommend layering the lettuce and pasta on the bottom and the dressing and cheese on top, but you’re welcome to get creative with the middle layers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Layered Pasta Salad is not just visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures and is incredibly versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it an effortless option for gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate a variety of veggies into your meal!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Large trifle bowl or glass dish for layering
  • Small mixing bowl for dressing
  • Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayo
  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Salad

  • 3 cups macaroni pasta, cooked and drained
  • 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • Half of 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • ⅓ cup chopped celery
  • 1 ½ cups diced ham
  • ⅓ cup black olives
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together mayo, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, begin layering the ingredients: lettuce first, then pasta, peppers, red onions, peas, celery, ham, olives, dressing, and cheese.
  3. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 5 hours.
  4. Toss right before serving.

Tips for Success

Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before assembling to prevent it from becoming sticky. When layering, press each layer gently to pack the ingredients tightly, enhancing both the look and flavor.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to swap out the ham for grilled chicken or keep it vegetarian by adding more veggies like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes. You can also use a different cheese or add some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe provides a balanced meal with carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the assorted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad the day before? Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when the flavors have had time to meld.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any small pasta shape such as shells or rotini works well.

How long will this salad last in the fridge? It can be stored for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Layered Pasta Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing color and flavor to your table. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear your variations and experiences in the comments below.

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