Colorful, creamy, and packed with all the flavors kids love, this Kids’ Pasta Salad is a must-have recipe for any busy family. It’s the kind of dish that brings pure joy to both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, thanks to its vibrant mix of tender pasta spirals, sweet veggies, and the irresistible combo of cheese and ham. A simple yet delicious homemade dressing ties everything together in a way that keeps those little (and big) hands reaching for more. If you’re looking for a meal that’s equal parts fun, filling, and fridge-friendly, Kids’ Pasta Salad is about to become your new favorite go-to!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Kids’ Pasta Salad lies in its perfect mix of everyday ingredients—each one playing an important role to create a salad that’s both inviting and seriously moreish. These staples come together for a bowl bursting with texture, color, and flavor punch, making every bite a tiny celebration.

500g pasta spirals: Their twisty shape is just right for catching dressing and holding onto all the yummy add-ins.
1 cup frozen peas: Sweet pops of green that add freshness and a gentle crunch.
1 cup frozen corn: Little bursts of natural sweetness that blend perfectly with creamy dressing.
100g shaved ham, chopped: Brings a savory, hearty bite that kids adore (and adults too!).
100g colby cheese, diced: Mild, melty cubes that make each forkful extra satisfying and creamy.
½ cup mayonnaise: Rich and smooth, this binds all the flavors together for that crowd-pleasing creaminess.
2 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the dressing coat everything evenly.
1 tsp runny honey: A hint of gentle sweetness really makes all the other flavors pop.

How to Make Kids’ Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the pasta spirals and cook them according to the packet instructions until they’re perfectly al dente—think tender but still delightfully toothsome. Remember, pasta is the heart of Kids’ Pasta Salad, so giving it your attention now sets you up for success!

Step 2: Steam the Vegetables

For the final 2 minutes of pasta cooking, arrange the frozen peas and corn in a steamer or a heatproof sieve set over the pot. Let the steam do its magic, turning them bright and tender with minimal fuss.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Base

Once both pasta and veggies are ready, drain everything well and rinse under cold water. This cools the noodles quickly (and keeps them from sticking), while stopping the veggies from overcooking. Tip the pasta, peas, and corn into a big mixing bowl along with the shaved ham and diced colby cheese.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small jug, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, and runny honey. Give it a good whisk until everything is silky and blended; this is the secret to a smooth, craveable sauce that clings to each little spiral.

Step 5: Dress and Toss

Pour that luscious dressing over your pasta mixture and stir it all together gently. You want every piece coated but not mushed, so use a light hand and a big spoon or spatula.

Step 6: Serve or Chill

If you’re serving Kids’ Pasta Salad right away, pile it into a bright serving dish and dive in. Heading to a BBQ or prepping for lunchboxes? Spoon the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate until you’re ready to wow the crowd.

How to Serve Kids’ Pasta Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra diced cheese, a scatter of chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives work wonders), or a twist of cracked black pepper can instantly dress up Kids’ Pasta Salad for company or big family celebrations. Let little hands sprinkle on their favorites!

Side Dishes

Pair Kids’ Pasta Salad with juicy grilled chicken, oven-fresh corn on the cob, or a big fruit platter for a balanced meal everyone will devour. It’s also delicious tucked alongside homemade sausage rolls or veggie sticks for a lunchbox you’ll be proud to send out the door.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon individual portions into cute mason jars for picnic lunches, or serve in colorful cupcake liners for birthday parties. For extra fun, turn it into a self-serve salad bar with little bowls of added mix-ins—like crunchy croutons, cherry tomatoes, or cubed avocado—so kids can DIY their own ultimate Kids’ Pasta Salad creations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Kids’ Pasta Salad is made, simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a lunchbox favorite or a super quick weeknight dinner you’ll be grateful for.

Freezing

While fresh is best for texture, you can freeze Kids’ Pasta Salad in a pinch. Pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge. Expect the veggies and cheese to soften, but the flavors still shine through!

Reheating

This salad is usually best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm option, just reheat gently in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring between bursts. Add a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil to refresh the texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for Kids’ Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Any short, kid-friendly shape—like penne, shells, or bow ties—works nicely. Just choose one that holds onto dressings and add-ins for the most satisfying bites.

Is there a vegetarian way to enjoy Kids’ Pasta Salad?

Definitely. Simply leave out the ham and add more colorful veggies, like diced bell peppers or shredded carrot, for an equally delicious and vibrant salad.

Can I make Kids’ Pasta Salad dairy free?

Yes! Swap out the colby cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative, and make sure to use a plant-based mayonnaise. The salad remains creamy, flavorful, and kid-approved.

Will the salad get soggy if I make it in advance?

Not at all. If stored properly, Kids’ Pasta Salad keeps its texture for a couple of days. If you like, reserve a little dressing to stir through just before serving for an extra fresh feel.

What other protein options can I add to Kids’ Pasta Salad?

Try diced cooked chicken, sliced turkey, or tinned tuna for a tasty protein boost. They complement the flavors beautifully and turn this salad into a really hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

With its playful colors and irresistible flavors, Kids’ Pasta Salad is a guaranteed hit at any table—plus it’s so simple, you’ll find yourself making it time and again. Give it a go, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

Kids’ Pasta Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Kids’ Pasta Salad is a colorful and tasty dish that both kids and adults will enjoy. Packed with veggies, ham, cheese, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or as a side dish at dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Salad:

500g pasta spirals
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
100g shaved ham, chopped
100g colby cheese, diced

Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp runny honey

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta following packet instructions.
Steam Vegetables: Steam the frozen peas and corn over the pasta for the last 2 minutes until cooked.
Prepare Salad: Strain the pasta, cool it under cold water, then combine it in a large bowl with peas, corn, ham, and cheese.
Make Dressing: In a small jug, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, and honey.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and mix well to coat.
Serve or Store: Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Perfect for lunchboxes!