Pasta salad is an absolute summer classic in our opinion. No barbecue, picnic, or potluck is complete without it. There are numerous wonderful variations available, but if you want to jazz up this summer favorite, Layered Pasta Salad is a must-try! Vibrant layers of pasta, vegetables, and ham combine with a zesty dressing to create a salad that will impress both family and friends!

It’s a make-ahead recipe, which means you’ll have one less thing to worry about when entertaining or attempting to get to your event. The only step that requires more than cutting is to cook the pasta. We used a basic macaroni noodle, but any similar-sized pasta will work! Boil the pasta only till al dente (no one wants mushy salad), then drain and rinse it.

Allow it to cool completely before arranging the salad to avoid sticking together. Meanwhile, cut the remaining vegetables and prepare the creamy dressing. We recommend piling the lettuce and spaghetti on the bottom and the dressing and cheese on top, but you may be creative with the middle layers! Once the salad is assembled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 5 hours.

This gives the flavors time to combine before serving. Set the dish out with the layers intact so that everyone may see its beauty, then mix it thoroughly before digging in. If you want to dazzle at your next summer party, this dish is perfect. Give our Layered Pasta Salad a try, and we are confident you will agree!