Looking for a dish that tastes as good as it looks? This Layered Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. With a creamy, tangy dressing and colorful layers of pasta, fresh vegetables, ham, and cheese, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, this salad always steals the spotlight.
Layered Pasta Salad
Ingredients
For the Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Sour cream | 3/4 cup |
| White wine vinegar | 2 teaspoons |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dijon mustard | 2 teaspoons |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
For the Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Macaroni pasta, cooked and drained | 3 cups |
| Chopped romaine lettuce | 3 cups |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1/2 |
| Red onion, finely diced | 1/4 cup |
| Frozen green peas, thawed | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped celery | 1/3 cup |
| Diced ham | 1 1/2 cups |
| Black olives | 1/3 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup |
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad: Using a large trifle bowl or clear glass dish, layer the ingredients in this order: lettuce on the bottom, then macaroni, red bell pepper, red onion, green peas, and celery. Add the diced ham, followed by black olives. Pour the dressing evenly over the top, and finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Chill: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to develop and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Before serving, gently toss the salad to coat everything evenly in the dressing so each bite is packed with flavor.
This Layered Pasta Salad is creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—a show-stopping side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
