Cold Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise and Ham

Cold Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise and Ham is a classic, creamy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days, picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches. This comforting pasta salad combines tender pasta, savory ham, crunchy vegetables, and a smooth, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing that brings everything together beautifully.

It’s a recipe that feels nostalgic and satisfying, often reminding people of family gatherings and summer celebrations. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this cold pasta salad is a reliable favorite that tastes even better after chilling, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make.
The combination of soft pasta, salty ham, and crisp vegetables coated in a rich mayonnaise dressing creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s one of those dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, making it stress-free for entertaining or busy days.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for picnics, BBQs, and potlucks
• Creamy, savory, and refreshing
• Can be made ahead of time
• Loved by both kids and adults

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving

Course: Salad / Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne)
• 1½ cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and cool completely.
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice.
3. Add ham and vegetables to the cooled pasta.
4. Stir in dressing and season to taste.
5. Chill before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice or vinegar until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Add-Ins
Dice the ham and finely chop celery, bell pepper, and red onion.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooled pasta, ham, and vegetables to the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Season and Chill
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve Cold Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise and Ham chilled. It’s perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches, and works well as a light main course for lunch. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking
• Dice ingredients evenly for consistent texture
• Adjust mayonnaise quantity for desired creaminess
• Chill before serving for best flavor
• Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling

Variations

Cheesy Pasta Salad: Add cubes of cheddar or Swiss cheese.
Veggie-Loaded Version: Add peas, corn, or cucumber for extra crunch.
Lighter Version: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Italian-Style: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of paprika or hot sauce for heat.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended, as mayonnaise-based salads can separate and lose texture when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Cold Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise and Ham is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or quick lunches, this recipe delivers comforting flavors with minimal effort. With easy customization options and make-ahead convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.