This Layered Pasta Salad Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With layers of al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and protein-packed toppings, this salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep. The transparent serving bowl showcases the colorful layers, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Chill Time
- 1 hour
Total Time
- 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings
- 6–8 servings
Ingredients
→ Pasta and Grains
- 225 grams dried rotini or penne pasta , cooked, rinsed under cold water, and cooled
→ Dressing
- 240 milliliters ranch or Italian dressing
→ Vegetables
- 150 grams cherry tomatoes , halved
- 1 medium cucumber , diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper , diced
- 70 grams red onion , thinly sliced
- 425 grams sweet corn kernels , drained
- 425 grams black olives , drained and sliced
- 140 grams frozen peas , thawed
- 60 grams baby spinach or mixed salad greens
→ Protein and Dairy
- 4 hard-boiled eggs , peeled and sliced
- 115 grams cheddar cheese , shredded
→ Seasoning
- Salt , to taste
- Black pepper , to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash, peel, and chop all the vegetables as indicated: halve the cherry tomatoes , dice the cucumber and red bell pepper , thinly slice the red onion , and drain the sweet corn kernels and black olives .
- Thaw the frozen peas if not already done.
- Peel and slice the hard-boiled eggs . Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- In a large, transparent serving bowl, start with an even layer of the cooled pasta . Drizzle a portion of the dressing over the pasta to lightly coat it.
- Add the thawed peas as the next layer, spreading them evenly over the pasta.
- Follow with the sweet corn kernels , cherry tomatoes , diced cucumber , red bell pepper , and sliced red onion , adding each ingredient in even layers. Lightly season each vegetable layer with salt and black pepper .
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the vegetable layers.
- Scatter the sliced black olives atop the cheese.
- Add a layer of baby spinach or mixed greens , covering the previous layers completely.
- Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the greens for a decorative finish.
Step 4: Dress and Chill
- Pour the remaining dressing evenly over the entire salad, ensuring all layers are lightly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Present the salad chilled, either as-is to showcase the beautiful layers or gently mix just before serving for a more uniform flavor.
- Serve as a standalone dish or pair with grilled proteins like chicken or steak for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Customize Your Salad: Swap or add ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or crumbled feta cheese for extra variety.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Dressing Options: Use a combination of ranch and Italian dressing for a tangy twist, or substitute with a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Note that the greens may wilt slightly over time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Layered Pasta Salad Bowl is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. Each layer brings something unique to the table—from the creamy dressing to the crunchy vegetables and savory cheese. It’s easy to assemble, visually stunning, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ready to create a salad that’s as impressive to look at as it is to eat? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying—it’s a bowl full of goodness!
