Creamy Ham & Veggie Pasta Salad!

🍝 Creamy Ham & Veggie Pasta Salad

🌟 Description

This hearty and refreshing pasta salad combines tender pasta, diced ham, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing. It’s a complete meal in one bowl — great served chilled or at room temperature.

🛒 Ingredients

For the salad:

• 3 cups short pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne)

• 1½ cups cooked ham, diced

• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)

• 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly blanched or raw (your choice)

• ½ cup carrots, shredded or finely chopped

• ½ cup celery, diced

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded (optional)

• 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

For the creamy dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise (or half mayo + half Greek yogurt for lighter version)

• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (balances flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of garlic powder or paprika

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to cool, and set aside.

2. Prepare the dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Combine ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta, ham, peas, peppers, broccoli, carrots, celery, and cheese.

4. Mix everything:
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.

5. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

6. Serve:
   Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh herbs before serving.

🍽️ Serves: 6–8

🕒 Prep Time: 20 min

❄️ Chill Time: 30 min

💡 Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo and sour cream.

• Add crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or toasted almonds before serving.

• Add color: Use tri-color rotini for a fun, vibrant look.

• Make ahead: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days — perfect for meal prep.

❓ Creamy Ham & Veggie Pasta Salad Q&A

Q1: Can I use leftover holiday ham?

A: Absolutely! This salad is a great way to use up leftover ham from Easter, Christmas, or any roast.

Q2: Can I make it vegetarian?

A: Yes — just skip the ham and add extra veggies or protein-rich chickpeas.

Q3: Can I use other dressings?

A: Sure! Try ranch dressing or a honey mustard dressing for a flavor twist.

Q4: How long does it last in the fridge?

A: Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving — the dressing may thicken as it chills.

Q5: Can I serve it warm?

A: It’s best chilled, but you can enjoy it slightly warm right after mixing if you prefer a cozier dish.