This Layered Pasta Salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it a fantastic centerpiece for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering. With a creamy, tangy dressing and layers of pasta, fresh vegetables, ham, and cheese, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every scoop.
Layered Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
Dressing:
Salad:
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Layer the Salad: In a large trifle bowl or clear glass dish (to show off those beautiful layers!), begin assembling the salad by adding the ingredients in the following order:
- First, spread the chopped romaine lettuce evenly on the bottom.
- Next, add a layer of the cooked and drained macaroni pasta.
- Follow with layers of the diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, thawed frozen green peas, and chopped celery.
- Add the diced ham.
- Then, evenly distribute the black olives.
- Carefully pour the prepared dressing over the layers.
- Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours (or ideally longer, even overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Just before serving, toss all the ingredients gently within the bowl to combine the dressing and ensure every bite is flavorful.
