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Easy Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

Easy Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad

A retro-tangy, creamy pink pasta salad loaded with ham, cheddar, and crunchy pickles. Perfect for potlucks and make-ahead lunches.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz dry rotini pasta or another short, curly pasta
  • 0.75 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.5 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
  • 3 tbsp ketchup adds the signature pink hue
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar to brighten the dressing
  • 1.5 tsp granulated sugar balances the tang
  • 0.75 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil helps loosen the dressing
  • 8 oz deli ham, diced use thick-cut for best texture
  • 6 oz cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1.25 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 0.5 cup dill pickles, chopped
  • 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 0.75 cup celery, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved optional but colorful
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped plus more for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente, 8–10 minutes. Drain, rinse cool, and shake dry.
  • Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, relish, Dijon, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and oil until smooth.
  • Add pasta, ham, cheddar, peas, pickles, onion, celery, tomatoes, and parsley to a large bowl.
  • Pour in the dressing and toss until every noodle is coated and the mix-ins are evenly distributed.
  • Chill 30 minutes. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar. Garnish and serve.

Notes

Variation: Swap ham for cooked chicken or salami, or go vegetarian with chickpeas. Stir in sliced jalapeños for heat.
Make-ahead tip: Chill up to 24 hours. Reserve 2 tablespoons of dressing to refresh just before serving.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Pink Cadillac Pasta Salad flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.