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Ham & Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe (Quick and Easy!)

Ham & Pickle Pasta Salad

If you're looking for a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of ham with the tangy crunch of pickles, look no further than this Ham & Pickle Pasta Salad. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is a refreshing take on traditional pasta salads.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz pasta choose your favorite type, such as rotini or elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham use leftover ham or deli ham for convenience
  • 1 cup dill pickles chopped for that crunchy, tangy flavor
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped for a hint of sweetness and color
  • 1/2 cup celery diced to add a crisp texture
  • 1 cup mayonnaise the creamy base for the dressing
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard adds a layer of flavor and tanginess
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity
Salt and pepper
  • fresh dill optional, for garnish and added flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, chopped dill pickles, finely chopped red onion, and diced celery. Mix them together until they are evenly distributed.
  3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is creamy and well combined.
  4. Step 4: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl containing the ham and vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the pasta and gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly with the dressing.
  5. Step 5: Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Step 6: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  7. Step 7: Before serving, give the salad a good stir. If desired, garnish with fresh dill. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Perfect for meal prep!