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:

Ingredient Quantity
Mayo 1/2 cup
Sour cream ¾ cup
White wine vinegar 2 teaspoons
Sugar 1 teaspoon
Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons
Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon
Salad:

Ingredient Quantity
Macaroni pasta, cooked and drained 3 cups
Chopped romaine lettuce 3 cups
Red bell pepper, diced Half of 1
Red onion, finely diced ¼ cup
Frozen green peas, thawed ½ cup
Chopped celery ⅓ cup
Diced ham 1 ½ cups
Black olives ⅓ cup
Shredded cheddar cheese ½ cup
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.