This Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a creamy, comforting dish that’s both simple and delicious. The combination of tender pasta, savory ham, and sweet peas, all coated in a tangy ranch dressing, makes it a perfect side for any meal. It’s an effortless recipe that brings nostalgia to the table, ideal for BBQs, picnics, or even a quick lunch.
The best part about this dish? It’s incredibly easy to make! With just a few ingredients, you get a flavorful and satisfying salad that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light standalone meal. Letting it sit in the fridge for a couple of hours enhances the flavors, making it even tastier. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rotini pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing/seasoning mix (dry powder)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 10 ounces frozen peas (unthawed)
- 8 ounces ham, diced into small cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for pasta water)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente texture. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry with paper towels and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, dry Ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- In another large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, frozen peas, and diced ham.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or, for best flavor, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 546 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Ham and Pea Pasta Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Classic
Introduction
Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a timeless dish that has been a favorite in homes, picnics, and potlucks for decades. This cold pasta salad is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Inspired by the beloved Ruby Tuesday version, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Whether you need a quick side dish for a summer BBQ, a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, or a comforting recipe to share at family gatherings, this Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a go-to option. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized in various ways to suit your taste preferences.
A Brief History of Pasta Salads
Pasta salads have been a staple in American cuisine since the mid-20th century, gaining popularity as a convenient and delicious way to serve pasta chilled. They became especially popular in the 1980s and 1990s when casual dining chains, like Ruby Tuesday, began serving signature pasta salads with creamy dressings.
The combination of ham and peas in pasta salad likely originated from traditional ham and pea casseroles, which have been enjoyed for generations. The cold pasta version took this comforting flavor pairing and made it more refreshing and suited for warmer weather.
Today, this dish remains a classic, loved for its creamy texture, delicious taste, and ability to be made ahead of time.
Why This Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is the Best
- Creamy and Flavorful – The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk creates a rich and creamy dressing that coats every bite of pasta. The addition of Ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor that makes this dish stand out.
- Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory – The saltiness of the ham contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the peas, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
- Quick and Easy to Make – With only a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks. It takes just 25 minutes from start to finish!
- Great for Meal Prep – This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it for several days.
- Versatile and Customizable – While the base recipe is delicious, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences. Add more vegetables, switch up the protein, or use a different type of pasta to make it your own.
- Ideal for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, need a side dish for a holiday meal, or want something quick and easy for lunch, this pasta salad fits the bill.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a creamy and indulgent dish, it also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Packed – The ham provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health.
- Rich in Fiber – Peas are high in fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Good Source of Calcium – The dairy-based dressing contains calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
- Energy-Boosting Carbs – Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed to fuel your day.
To make the dish even healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of mayonnaise, or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this pasta salad is how easy it is to customize. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Add More Veggies – Mix in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
- Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a little heat.
- Use Different Proteins – Swap the ham for grilled chicken, turkey, or even cooked shrimp for a different twist.
- Add Some Crunch – Toss in crispy bacon bits, croutons, or sunflower seeds for added texture.
- Experiment with Cheese – Stir in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or feta cheese for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
To ensure your Ham and Pea Pasta Salad turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente – Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the salad. Cook it until it’s firm to the bite, then rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Dry the Pasta Well – Too much moisture can make the dressing watery. Pat the pasta dry with paper towels before mixing.
- Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Add more salt, pepper, or extra Ranch seasoning if needed.
- Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Avoid freezing, as the dressing may separate.
Serving Suggestions
Ham and Pea Pasta Salad pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it a fantastic side dish for:
- Grilled Meats – Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or burgers for a complete meal.
- BBQ Favorites – Perfect with ribs, pulled pork, or grilled sausages.
- Sandwiches & Wraps – Enjoy with turkey sandwiches, BLTs, or a simple grilled cheese.
- Holiday Feasts – Makes a great side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter gatherings.
You can also serve it as a light main course with a side of crusty bread and fresh fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While rotini works well, you can use bowtie, penne, elbow macaroni, or even shell pasta.
Q: Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise?
A: You can use Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and light mayo to cut down on calories while maintaining creaminess.
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
A: Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they should be lightly blanched before adding to the salad.
Q: How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
A: It will stay fresh for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. Its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor combination makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a quick side dish, packing it for a picnic, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
With its versatility, easy preparation, and comforting taste, there’s no reason not to give this recipe a try. Make a batch today and enjoy the delicious flavors of this timeless pasta salad!
Conclusion
Ham and Pea Pasta Salad is a true classic, offering a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a make-ahead meal, or a nostalgic recipe to share with family and friends, this dish is an excellent choice. Its versatility allows for endless customizations, making it easy to adapt to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
With its simple preparation, easy-to-find ingredients, and ability to be stored for days, this pasta salad is a must-have in your recipe collection. Whether served at summer cookouts, holiday gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners, it delivers delicious comfort with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a dish that’s both timeless and satisfying!