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Certainly! Here’s a detailed and unique article about the “Ultimate Layered Pasta Salad”, including a flavorful step-by-step method to make it beautifully and deliciously:

The Ultimate Layered Pasta Salad: A Colorful Masterpiece in a Bowl

Pasta salad is already a favorite at potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners—but when you turn it into a layered pasta salad, it transforms into a show-stopping centerpiece. The Ultimate Layered Pasta Salad isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a visual celebration of color, texture, and flavor, stacked beautifully in a glass bowl. Every layer has a purpose, every ingredient plays a part, and together they create a perfectly balanced and satisfying dish.

Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining, or just want something vibrant and filling, this pasta salad will impress. Here’s how to make it step by step.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Pasta Base:

2 cups rotini or farfalle pasta (cooked al dente)
Salted water for boiling

Creamy Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp sugar (optional, for tangy-sweet balance)

Colorful Layers:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced (peeled if desired)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham (optional)
¾ cup red onion, finely diced
1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce

🥗 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente—firm to the bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly. Toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar. Adjust seasoning to taste. Keep refrigerated until ready to layer.