Hawaiian Pasta Salad Ham Pineapple (Print Version)

Tropical pasta with ham, pineapple, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing. Perfect chilled side or light meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz rotini or bow tie pasta
02 - 1 teaspoon salt for boiling water

→ Salad Mix-ins

03 - 7 oz cooked ham, diced
04 - 8 oz canned pineapple tidbits, drained
05 - 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
08 - 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

→ Dressing

09 - 1/2 cup ranch dressing
10 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
11 - 1 tablespoon pineapple juice reserved from can
12 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
13 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped optional

# How To Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced ham, pineapple tidbits, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and thawed peas.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayonnaise, reserved pineapple juice, lime juice, black pepper, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth.
04 - Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta and vegetable combination. Toss gently and thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
05 - Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour before serving to allow flavors to develop.
06 - Remove from refrigerator and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Combines sweet pineapple and savory ham for a perfect tropical flavor balance.
  • Creamy ranch dressing adds a smooth, tangy layer to the crisp vegetables.
  • Quick and easy preparation makes it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
  • Can be prepared ahead and chilled to enhance flavors.
02 -
  • Use rotini or bow tie pasta to hold the dressing well and add texture.
  • Drain canned pineapple tidbits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
  • Make the salad several hours ahead to allow flavors to fully develop.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste after chilling as flavors intensify.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness.
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