Looking for the perfect summer salad to elevate your BBQ, picnic, or potluck? This Ultimate Layered Pasta Salad is a show-stopping, make-ahead dish that’s sure to impress! Packed with vibrant layers of macaroni pasta, crisp veggies, savory ham, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the ultimate stress-free addition to your summer menu.
Ingredients
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
Preparation
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, layer the ingredients in the following order: romaine lettuce, macaroni pasta, red bell pepper, red onion, green peas, celery, ham, black olives, the prepared dressing, and finally, shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Before serving, toss the salad gently to combine all the layers. Enjoy this refreshing, crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering!
