Classic Macaroni Salad With Ham

This macaroni salad with ham doesn't get much easier—it has only two steps. True, there is a little prep work involved, but nothing more intense than chopping some ham and a few vegetables.

This recipe is similar to a layered salad in that you can do a lot of the prep work in advance and store everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When it comes time to assemble the salad, simply boil some pasta, stir in the ham, vegetables, mayonnaise and seasoning, then cover and chill at least two hours.

This macaroni salad recipe, sent in by Keva Colston of Baton Rouge Louisiana, was published in the June 2007 issue of Southern Living and quickly garnered many favorable reviews and comments from readers.

Ingredients for Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham

A colorful mix of bell peppers, tomato, cucumber, and ham is seasoned with a creamy, Cajun-seasoned dressing and tossed with elbow macaroni for a tasty side dish you can make in advance. To make classic macaroni salad with ham, you'll need:

• Elbow macaroni: The pasta base of the salad, offering a nostalgic touch. You can use any medium-size pasta, but elbow pasta is classic.
• Cooked ham: For a savory flavor and protein-rich addition. Use leftover ham, or chop up a ham steak.
• Cucumber: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to the salad.
• Tomato: Adds a juicy pop of freshness throughout the salad.
• Red, yellow, and green bell pepper: For a colorful crunch.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing.
• Cajun seasoning: Adds a spicy kick and complexity to the salad.
• Lemon juice: Acidity to balance the richness of the dressing.
• Salt: Seasons the salad to taste.

How To Make Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham

Throwing together this traditional pasta salad couldn't be easier. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Cook pasta: Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
• Step 2. Combine remaining ingredients: Stir to combine macaroni with next nine ingredients. Season with salt to taste. Cover and chill at least two hours.

Classic Macaroni Salad With Ham Variations

Popular additions to this classic salad include red onions, pickles, sweet relish, hard-boiled eggs, hot sauce, or mustard, but consider these additions and substitutions for even more variety:

• Pasta: Opt for other types of pasta shapes if preferred, including rotini, penne, farfalle, or cavatappi.
• Veggies: Add diced carrots or celery, or sprinkle in cooked corn or peas for a sweet touch.
• Dressing: Lighten up the dressing by swapping part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Protein: Bulk up the salad and serve as a light lunch by adding shredded chicken or turkey into the mix.

Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad

Let's be honest: it's hard to mess up macaroni salad. But for consistently great results, keep these simple tips in mind:

• The pasta: Feel free to choose any shape of pasta you prefer for this pasta salad recipe. Whatever type you choose, cook in salted water just until al dente for the best flavor and texture.
• Dice evenly: For a colorful mix of veggies in each bite and the best presentation, dice the vegetables as evenly in size and shape as possible.
• Cool completely: Cool the pasta completely before adding the dressing to avoid separation or a dry result (hot pasta will eagerly soak up the dressing).
• Fresh ingredients: Cucumber, tomato, and a variety of bell peppers add a flavorful, colorful touch to this salad. Make sure to choose the freshest produce for the best flavor and texture.
• Revive before serving: If making the pasta salad ahead, re-season to taste, and revive, if needed, by adding a splash of milk to loosen up the texture before serving. 

Can I Make Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham Ahead?

While this salad should be made and chilled for at least two hours before serving, you can also get ahead of your party prep by making it in advance. Mix and store in an airtight container or tightly-wrapped bowl up to one day ahead of serving. Consider stirring in the tomatoes on the day of serving to keep them from breaking down.

You can also dice the veggies and store in separate airtight containers up to two days ahead, then assemble and chill the salad two hours before serving.

How To Store and Reheat Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham

Refrigerate leftover macaroni salad for up to three days. Any longer, and the texture and quality of the pasta salad may start to decline. Loosen up the texture with a splash of milk if needed, and re-season to taste before serving.

What To Serve With Classic Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a cookout staple, and a perfect accompaniment to barbecue ribs, burgers, hot dogs, chicken, steak, sausages, and more. Pair with other favorite barbecue sides, including cornbread, baked beans, coleslaw, and corn on the cob.

Pack and bring to a picnic along with deviled eggs, potato salad, sandwiches, and coleslaw, or serve with fried chicken, crab cakes, grilled shrimp, or other types of seafood. No matter how or when you serve it, this classic dish is always gobbled up in no time.

More Pasta Salad Recipes You'll Love

A popular side dish for outdoor occasions or large gatherings, these pasta salad recipes will complement just about any menu:

• Cowboy Pasta Salad
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
• BLT Pasta Salad
• Seafood Pasta Salad
• Broccoli, Grape, and Pasta Salad
• Chicken Tortellini Salad
• Penne with Green Beans and Tomatoes
• Bacon-Ranch Pasta Salad
• Southern Shrimp Pasta Salad

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.