Description
This tropical-inspired pasta salad features tender pasta, juicy pineapple, savory ham, crisp bell peppers, and green onions tossed in a creamy pineapple-Dijon dressing. It’s light, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
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8 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
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1 (14 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained (reserve juice)
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2 cups diced cooked ham
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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2 green onions, sliced thin
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1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/3 cup reserved pineapple juice
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp honey
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. -
Mix dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, pineapple juice, Dijon, vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Combine ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, ham, pineapple, bell pepper, green onions, and carrots (if using). -
Toss with dressing:
Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. -
Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
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Add crunch with diced celery, macadamia nuts, or water chestnuts.
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Make it vegetarian by swapping ham for chickpeas or extra veggies.
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Great make-ahead dish – the flavors get better after chilling!