Pat Cash Pasta Salad

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Pat Cash Pasta Salad

Are you ready to elevate your summer gatherings with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Meet the Pat Cash Pasta Salad—a delightful Australian classic that combines the heartiness of pasta with the savory goodness of ham and cheese. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply a quick weeknight meal that will leave your taste buds dancing! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this refreshing dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a salad that’s not just food, but a celebration of flavors!

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Australian
Serves: 6 servings

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz pasta
  2. 1 cup diced ham
  3. 1 cup shredded cheese
  4. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  5. 1/4 cup mustard
  6. 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Dice the ham into small, bite-sized pieces and set aside. Shred the cheese if it is not pre-shredded, and place it in a mixing bowl.
  3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool for a few minutes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced ham, shredded cheese, and chopped celery. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of mustard until smooth. This will be your dressing for the pasta salad.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
  7. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and taste one last time to check for seasoning. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional celery or cheese if desired.

Tips

  1. Cook Pasta Perfectly: To ensure your pasta is al dente, follow the package instructions closely and taste it a minute or two before the timer goes off. This will prevent overcooking and keep your salad from becoming mushy.
  2. Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you can wait!) helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
  3. Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for an extra crunch and burst of color. You can also swap out the ham for chicken or turkey for a different twist.
  4. Make Ahead: This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance, just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
  5. Serve with Style: Garnish your salad with fresh herbs or additional cheese to elevate its presentation. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of freshness!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 15g

Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Cholesterol: 45mg

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