layered pasta salad

A layered pasta salad is a visually appealing and delicious dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or gatherings. Here’s a basic recipe to make a layered pasta salad:Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 225g) pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or penne)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Once the pasta has cooled, assemble the layered pasta salad in a large serving dish or trifle bowl.
4. Start by layering half of the cooked pasta in the bottom of the dish.
5. Next, layer half of each of the vegetables (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, peas, and black olives) over the pasta.
6. Drizzle half of the dressing evenly over the vegetables.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the dressing.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, vegetables, dressing, and shredded cheese.
9. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Before serving, garnish the layered pasta salad with chopped fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
11. Toss gently to combine all the layers just before serving.
12. Serve the layered pasta salad chilled as a refreshing and satisfying dish.

Enjoy this colorful and flavorful layered pasta salad as a side dish or a light meal! Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.