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Recipe Overview

Layered pasta salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that has captivated food lovers for decades. This visually appealing dish is not only versatile but also perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. With layers of pasta, fresh vegetables, savory proteins, and cheese, each bite offers a balanced taste experience. The ability to prepare it in advance and the impressive presentation make it a popular choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Salad:

  • 3 cups cooked macaroni pasta, drained and cooled
  • 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • 1/3 cup chopped celery
  • 1 1/2 cups diced ham
  • 1/3 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation

1. Make the Dressing

  • Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  • Chill: Cover and refrigerate the dressing until ready to use. This allows the flavors to meld together.

2. Cook the Pasta

  • Cook and Drain: Prepare the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool completely.
  • Set Aside: Once cooled, set the pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • Layer 1 – Pasta: In a large clear glass bowl, start with a base layer of cooked and cooled macaroni pasta.
  • Layer 2 – Vegetables: Add a layer of chopped romaine lettuce, followed by diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, thawed green peas, and chopped celery.
  • Layer 3 – Protein: Evenly spread the diced ham over the vegetable layer.
  • Layer 4 – Cheese and Olives: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and sliced black olives on top.

4. Final Layer – Dressing

  • Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the top of the salad. Spread it evenly across the surface.
  • Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.

Serving and Enjoying

Presentation:

  • For a beautiful presentation, serve the layered pasta salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant layers. Alternatively, use individual mason jars for a charming and convenient serving option.

Serving Suggestions:

  • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup. Its versatility makes it a perfect side dish for various main courses, adding a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Leftovers:

  • Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, consume within 2-3 days. If you prefer to keep the salad fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it with the salad just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

Freezing Instructions

Note: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, as the vegetables may lose their crispness, and the dressing may separate upon thawing.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Final Thoughts

Layered pasta salad is a visually stunning and delicious dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. Its ease of preparation and ability to be made ahead of time make it an ideal choice for gatherings and busy schedules. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both the eyes and the palate.

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