Pasta Salad With Ham And Cheese
A creamy, savory pasta salad with ham, cheese, and fresh herbs, perfect for picnics, casual gatherings, or as a quick lunch option full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in boiling, salted water until just done (10 to 12 minutes).
- Drain the pasta, rinse in cold water, and drain again. Transfer to a bowl.
- Cut the ham and Cheddar cheese into cubes and add to the pasta.
- Slice the scallions and add to the pasta, along with the chopped parsley.
- Stir in the mayonnaise and toss all ingredients until well mixed.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. For a different cheese profile, try using mozzarella or pepper jack. Ensure the pasta is fully cooled before mixing to avoid a mushy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or as a side for your next picnic. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or pair it with other American recipes like Bacon & Cheddar Dip. For a heartier meal, consider adding hard-boiled eggs or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds, stirring halfway through, or serve cold as a refreshing dish. Adding a splash of mayonnaise before serving can help revive its creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Salad With Ham And Cheese contains roughly 671 calories, with 19g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1306mg per serving (57% 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
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta salad up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will meld nicely. However, it's best to add the mayonnaise just before serving to keep the salad fresh and creamy.
Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Yes, you can easily substitute the corkscrew pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like diced cucumbers, carrots, or even peas for added crunch and nutrition. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also elevate the flavor profile. Just make sure to chop everything into small, uniform pieces for even distribution.
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).