This colorful, flavor-packed layered pasta salad is not just a side dish—it’s the star of every BBQ, picnic, or potluck! With vibrant layers of tender pasta, crisp veggies, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing, every bite is a textural masterpiece. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly and feeds a crowd!
✨ Why This Recipe Wins
✅ Visually stunning – Instagram-worthy layers
✅ Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste
✅ Better overnight – Flavors meld perfectly
✅ No soggy pasta – Smart layering keeps textures crisp
π Ingredients
Base Layer
16 oz rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente & cooled
1 cup Italian dressing (tossed with pasta to prevent sticking)
Veggie Layers (Pick 4-5)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped (red/yellow for color)
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
Protein & Cheese Layers
1 cup cubed cheddar or mozzarella
1 cup diced ham or salami (or chickpeas for vegetarian)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Finishing Touches
1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
2 tbsp mustard
1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or dill)
Extra dressing for drizzling