Layered Pasta Salad is a quintessential summer favorite. No barbecue, picnic, or potluck feels complete without it. While there are countless variations, this Layered Pasta Salad adds a fresh twist to the classic dish. Featuring colorful layers of pasta, vegetables, and ham, all tossed in a tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress both family and friends. Best of all, it’s a make-ahead dish, perfect for stress-free entertaining or a quick grab-and-go option for your next event.
Ingredients:
Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 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 cooked macaroni pasta, drained
– 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
– ½ red bell pepper, diced
– ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
– ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
– ⅓ cup chopped celery
– 1 ½ cups diced ham
– ⅓ cup black olives
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Layered Pasta Salad:
1. **Make the Dressing:**
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. **Layer the Salad:**
In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, layer the salad ingredients in the following order: lettuce, pasta, bell peppers, red onions, peas, celery, ham, olives, then the dressing, and finally top with shredded cheddar cheese.
3. **Chill:**
Cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours to let the flavors meld.
4. **Serve:**
Toss the salad right before serving to ensure the layers are well mixed. Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful dish!
Conclusion:
This Layered Pasta Salad is a perfect make-ahead dish for any summer gathering. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, savory ham, and creamy dressing ensures a delightful, balanced flavor in every bite. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing dish at your next event!