Description
This Layered Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish perfect for any gathering. Featuring macaroni pasta, fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a creamy homemade dressing, this colorful salad is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether for a picnic, barbecue, or weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at every gathering.
Ingredients
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayo
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Salad:
- 3 cups macaroni pasta, cooked and drained
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup frozen green peas, thawed
- ⅓ cup chopped celery
- 1 ½ cups diced chicken
- ⅓ cup black olives
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl or trifle dish, layer the ingredients starting with the macaroni pasta at the base.
- Add the veggies and chicken: Add the chopped romaine lettuce, followed by the diced red bell pepper, red onion, thawed green peas, chopped celery, and diced chicken.
- Top with cheese and olives: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and black olives over the salad.
- Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the top of the layered ingredients.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Stir before serving for even distribution of the dressing.
Notes
- Swap the chicken: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp, or plant-based protein for variety.
- Change up the veggies: Swap veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or different bell peppers to suit your preference.
- Use different cheese: Try mozzarella, feta, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on the cheese flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
