Layered Pasta Salad

This layered pasta salad combines fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing in a beautiful, colorful presentation. It’s a refreshing side dish that’s easy to make and customizable to your taste!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta (cooled)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

1. Layer the Salad:

• In a large glass bowl or trifle dish (to showcase the layers), start layering your ingredients. Here’s a suggested order for a colorful presentation:
  1. Bottom Layer: Cooked and cooled pasta
  2. Next Layers: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, shredded carrots, red onion, and peas
  3. Top Layer: Shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon (if using)

1. Add the Dressing:

• Spread the dressing evenly over the top of the layered salad, making sure to cover the edges so that the dressing acts as a seal for the ingredients underneath.

1. Chill:

• Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Before serving, sprinkle the top of the salad with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve cold.

Enjoy!

This Layered Pasta Salad is not only colorful and visually appealing but also packed with crunchy veggies and creamy flavors. It’s perfect for a summer gathering, and you can easily customize the ingredients to your preference by adding more vegetables, meats, or cheese!