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Layered Pasta Salad Recipe
This Layered Pasta Salad is a colorful, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. Each layer adds a burst of flavor and texture, and the creamy dressing ties it all together!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (fusilli, penne, or bow-tie work best)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Layer the Salad
- In a large glass bowl (for visual appeal) or a deep serving dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:
- Bottom Layer: Pasta
- Tomatoes
- Spinach or mixed greens
- Cucumber
- Shredded carrots
- Corn
- Red onion
- Bacon (if using)
- Top Layer: Shredded cheddar cheese
- Add as many layers as you like, depending on the size of your bowl.
4. Add the Dressing
- Spread the prepared dressing evenly over the top layer, covering the entire surface to seal the salad.
- For the best flavor, cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours) to let the flavors meld.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Toss the salad just before serving, or let guests scoop out each layer.
Tips
- Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat pasta and swap mayo for light mayonnaise or avocado-based mayo.
- Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier salad.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This vibrant, customizable layered pasta salad will be a hit at your next event. Let me know if you’d like alternate ingredient suggestions or creative add-ins! 😊
