Layered Pasta Salad

This Layered Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or meal prep. With layers of pasta, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy dressing, it’s a visually stunning and delicious salad that can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Salad

1. In a large glass bowl (for a beautiful layered effect), start with a layer of pasta at the bottom.
2. Add layers of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and bacon (if using).
3. Spread half of the dressing over the vegetables.
4. Add a layer of cheddar cheese and top with the remaining pasta.
5. Finish with the remaining dressing, spreading evenly over the top.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Make it protein-packed: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Lighter option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or chopped almonds on top.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

This Layered Pasta Salad is easy, colorful, and packed with fresh flavors—perfect for any gathering! Enjoy!