Layered 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.
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
How To Make Layered Pasta Salad
In a small bowl, mix together mayo, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, dijon, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
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.
Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 5 hours.
Toss right before serving.
This delightful dish not only provides a burst of flavors with every bite but also offers a stunning visual presentation that makes it perfect for any gathering. The combination of textures, from the crunch of the lettuce to the creaminess of the dressing, creates a balanced and satisfying salad that everyone will love.
What sets this Layered Pasta Salad apart is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley? Go for it! Looking to make it vegetarian? Substitute the ham with some chickpeas or grilled vegetables.
Not only is this salad a hit at summer events, but it's also a fantastic option for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time, and you’ll have a delicious and nourishing meal ready to go for busy weekdays. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious the next day.
In summary, Layered Pasta Salad is a versatile, make-ahead dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you're serving it at a summer BBQ, a picnic in the park, or a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to shine! Enjoy every colorful layer and watch as it disappears from the serving dish!