This Ham Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or even a light family dinner. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, combining tender pasta with chunks of juicy ham, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. The great thing about this salad is its versatility – you can add your favorite vegetables or even use leftover ham. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be served chilled, making it an excellent make-ahead meal that only gets better as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rotini or elbow pasta
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced ham, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and thawed peas.
- Toss and chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy this refreshing and hearty Ham Pasta Salad at your next gathering!