Cold Elbow Pasta and Ham Salad Ready to Serve.

 

🥗 Cold Elbow Pasta and Ham Salad – Perfect for Parties and Special Occasions

When it comes to irresistible cold dishes, this Cuban-style elbow pasta and ham salad is an excellent choice. Refreshing, creamy, and with a sweet and salty touch, it’s perfect for family gatherings and big celebrations.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound of short pasta (elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups of mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons of mustard
  • 3 tablespoons of pickles (finely chopped)
  • ¾ cup of fresh pineapple, diced small
  • 1 small apple, chopped
  • 1 boiled potato, cut into cubes
  • 5 boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 pound of ham, cut into small pieces
  • ½ pound of Swiss cheese, diced
  • 1 white onion, finely chopped
  • 1 roasted red bell pepper, cut into small strips
  • 2 teaspoons of vinegar
  • 2 jars of applesauce
  • ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Enough water to boil the pasta

 

 

👨‍🍳 How to Prepare This Delight

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the elbow pasta in plenty of salted water for about 15 minutes until tender but firm. Drain well and let it cool completely.

2. Mix the Base

In a large glass bowl, combine the cold pasta with half of the mayonnaise, the mustard, pickles, applesauce, fresh fruit, cheese, ham, and eggs. Stir gently to blend all ingredients together.

3. First Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the flavors can settle and the mixture becomes thoroughly chilled.

4. Second Mix and Adjustment

Remove the bowl and add the remaining mayonnaise, the onion previously marinated in vinegar, and the pepper strips. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix again. Cover and refrigerate for at least another 2 hours.

5. Final Presentation

When ready to serve, decorate the top with pepper strips, sliced egg, or a few fresh parsley or cilantro leaves. Serve well chilled and refrigerate any leftovers.

ℹ️ Additional Information:

  • Yields: 20 to 25 servings
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling time: 4 hours
  • Category: Pizzas and Pastas
  • Cuisine: Cuban

📌 Related Keywords:

  • Cuban elbow pasta salad
  • Cold salad with ham and cheese
  • Elbow pasta with mayonnaise and fruit
  • Cold dish for parties
  • Traditional Cuban pasta salad recipe

Did you try making this elbow pasta and ham salad? Tell us how it turned out in the comments. We love hearing from you!

For the Spanish version, visit: Ensalada Fría de Coditos y Jamón: La Reina de las Celebraciones Cubanas.