This delightful dish combines the classic comfort of pasta with crisp vegetables, savory ham, and a creamy dressing that adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish for any occasion, this salad offers a medley of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. With its easy preparation and make-ahead convenience, it’s a versatile option that ensures both convenience and culinary delight. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, this Layered Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salad:
- 3 cups cooked and drained macaroni pasta
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup thawed frozen green peas
- 1/3 cup chopped celery
- 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 1/3 cup black olives
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation:
- For the dressing, combine mayo, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, start layering the ingredients. Begin with a layer of lettuce, followed by pasta, diced red bell pepper, red onion, peas, celery, diced ham, black olives, dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Enjoy your delicious layered pasta salad!
