Some recipes come and go with the seasons, but this Layered Pasta Salad is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its bold colors, irresistible textures, and creamy homemade dressing, this dish isn’t just food — it’s a centerpiece.
Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, family reunions, or church picnics, it combines everything we love about summer in one big, beautiful bowl: crisp vegetables, hearty pasta, savory ham, and tangy cheddar cheese, all brought together by a rich and zesty dressing. And thanks to its layered presentation, it looks just as good as it tastes. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or simply want a dish that holds up in the fridge for days, this salad delivers big on flavor and presentation. Let’s walk through exactly how to make it.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Balanced Meal: Carbs, protein, veggies, and dairy in one dish.
- Customizable: Swap ham for bacon, skip olives, or use Greek yogurt.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes better after chilling overnight.
Ingredients:
- Dressing: Mayo, sour cream, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire, sugar, salt, pepper.
- Salad Layers: Cooked macaroni, romaine lettuce, red bell pepper, red onion, green peas, celery, ham, olives, cheddar cheese.
How to Make It:
- Mix dressing and set aside.
- Cook pasta, rinse, and cool.
- Layer ingredients in a large glass bowl: lettuce, pasta, veggies, ham, olives, dressing, then cheese.
- Chill for 5+ hours or overnight.
- Toss gently before serving.
Tips & Variations:
- Use cold pasta and dry veggies to avoid sogginess.
- Add cherry tomatoes, carrots, or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Swap pasta for chopped cauliflower for a low-carb version.
- Great for older adults: soft, easy to digest, and nostalgic in flavor.
Storage: Keeps in the fridge up to 3 days. Layers stay fresh and tasty even on day two.
