Ham And Shell Salad
A creamy, savory salad featuring large pasta shells, diced ham, cheddar cheese, and peas, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or potluck side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook large shells according to package directions and drain. Rinse with cool water and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked shells with diced ham, thawed peas, diced Cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, vegetable oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the shell mixture and toss lightly to coat.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also swap out the Cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a cheese of your choice. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or some diced bell peppers. This salad can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ham And Shell Salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread or alongside a bowl of Sweet And Sour Rice for a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, making it even tastier. If the salad seems dry after chilling, add a splash of mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the pasta and peas may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Shell Salad contains roughly 413 calories, with 14g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (187% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
To lighten up this salad, consider using a low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead. You can also increase the quantity of vegetables, such as adding diced cucumbers or carrots, to add volume without extra calories.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).