cold pasta salad with ham

Cold pasta salad with ham makes for a hearty and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. It’s a perfect side dish for summer barbecues and potlucks, as well as a tasty main course for a weeknight dinner. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the combination of salty ham, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Cold Pasta Salad with Ham

To make cold pasta salad with ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound of dry elbow macaroni
1/2 cup of diced ham
1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup of diced celery
1/2 cup of diced red onion
1/2 cup of shredded carrots
1/2 cup of frozen peas
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of white vinegar
1 tablespoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Cold Pasta Salad with Ham

To make cold pasta salad with ham, follow these instructions:

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, ham, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, carrots, and peas.
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard.
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Cold Pasta Salad with Ham

Cold pasta salad with ham can be served as a side dish or a main course. It’s a perfect accompaniment to summer barbecues, potlucks, and picnics. It’s also a great light lunch or dinner when served alongside a tossed salad. If you’d like to make it a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken or shrimp.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cold Pasta Salad with Ham

When making cold pasta salad with ham, keep these tips in mind:

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it’s not too soft or too crunchy.
For a tangier salad, use white wine vinegar instead of white vinegar.
For a spicier salad, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
You can use any type of ham you like, such as smoked ham, honey ham, or diced ham.
For a creamier salad, use light mayonnaise or a mixture of mayonnaise and plain yogurt.
For a healthier salad, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat mayonnaise.
For a sweeter salad, add a tablespoon of honey or a tablespoon of brown sugar.
For a crunchier salad, add some toasted nuts or some croutons.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cold Pasta Salad with Ham

Can I Make Cold Pasta Salad with Ham in Advance?

Yes, you can make cold pasta salad with ham in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.

How Long Does Cold Pasta Salad with Ham Last?

Cold pasta salad with ham will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I Freeze Cold Pasta Salad with Ham?

No, you should not freeze cold pasta salad with ham. The mayonnaise and other ingredients will separate and become watery when thawed.

Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for Cold Pasta Salad with Ham?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta for cold pasta salad with ham. Elbow macaroni is the most traditional type of pasta used, but you could also use penne, fusilli, or any other type of short-cut pasta.