Hearty Spam Pasta Salad

Elevate your next gathering with a dish that consistently steals the show! This Spam Pasta Salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience waiting to delight. Crafted with tender elbow macaroni, a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, and the surprising addition of savory Spam, all enrobed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, a hint of dill pickle juice, and a dash of black pepper. It might sound deceptively simple, but trust us, this is the pasta salad everyone will crave, returning for second and third helpings with every backyard barbecue and potluck. Its unique flavor profile is a testament to how humble ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.

A vibrant bowl of Spam pasta salad, ready to be served at a cookout.

This beloved Spam Pasta Salad recipe has been a cornerstone of my blog since its inception in 2013. Over the years, it has graced countless family tables and celebrations, always proving to be a crowd-pleaser. I’ve had the pleasure of preparing it more times than I can count, and with its enduring popularity, it was high time for an update. I recently took the opportunity to refresh the photos, ensuring they capture the irresistible appeal of this dish, and added some new content to fully showcase its magic. Now, I’m thrilled to re-share it with you, just in time for your upcoming Memorial Day Weekend festivities and beyond. Believe me, this is the quintessential pasta salad your cookout has been missing, promising a burst of flavor and a unique twist on a classic. Its robust, satisfying taste makes it an ideal companion for grilled favorites and sunny outdoor gatherings.

Contents

The Unforgettable Spam Pasta Salad: A Family Favorite

Before we dive into the delicious details of this recipe, allow me to preface it with a little assurance. If you’ve been a follower of my culinary adventures and have tried some of my recipes, you might already be familiar with my reputation for creating truly exceptional dishes. Perhaps you’ve whipped up my highly acclaimed Banana Bread – often hailed as the only banana bread recipe you’ll ever need – or perhaps you’ve indulged in the comforting sweetness of Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies. These are just a couple of examples of recipes that have earned a permanent spot in many kitchens.

The very first encounter I had with this extraordinary pasta salad was at a vibrant graduation party for my dear friend Tonja’s son. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and delicious food, but it was this particular salad that truly captivated everyone’s attention. My own children, usually discerning eaters, were not only on their second helpings but were also emitting enthusiastic “Mmm-ing” sounds with every single bite. Their genuine delight was unmistakable. Intrigued by their reaction and the salad’s undeniable popularity, I approached Tonja to inquire about its contents. With a playful giggle, she leaned in and revealed the two “secret ingredients” that set this salad apart from all others.

Her next revelation sealed the deal for me: she explained that it was actually Grandma Davis’ recipe. At that moment, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Seriously, for those who know Grandma Davis’s culinary prowess, her name alone is a seal of approval. This woman possesses an innate understanding of flavor and comfort food, and her recipes are consistently phenomenal. The anticipation of trying a dish endorsed by her legend only heightened my excitement.

Close-up of the delicious Spam pasta salad with fresh vegetables.

Unlocking the Secret: The Unexpected Ingredients That Make This Pasta Salad Legendary

Now, let’s talk about those “secret ingredients” – and please, don’t let the main one deter you from trying this truly wonderful salad. It is exceptionally good, and I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised. According to Tonja’s family, the two components that elevate this salad to its legendary status are Dill Pickle Juice and Spam. It’s an unconventional combination, but one that creates a flavor profile unlike any other pasta salad you’ve tasted.

Tonja shared a valuable insight: her Grandma typically uses her own homemade pickle juice, which undoubtedly adds a special touch. However, she assured me that the type of dill pickle juice isn’t as critical as including the Spam. She’s experimented with substituting ham for Spam, only to find that it “just isn’t the same.” The distinct flavor and texture of Spam are integral to this recipe’s magic. The pickle juice provides a crucial tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and complements the savory notes of the Spam, creating a beautifully balanced dressing. The combination is surprisingly harmonious and addictive.

What Exactly is Spam and Why Does It Belong in My Pasta Salad?

For those unfamiliar, SPAM is a brand of salty, precooked canned pork product, famously introduced in 1937 by the Hormel Foods Corporation. Its basic ingredients are a blend of pork shoulder and ham, which are finely chopped, seasoned, and then pressed into its iconic rectangular can. Spam rose to significant prominence during World War II, serving as a vital and convenient protein source for soldiers, and its legacy as a pantry staple has endured for generations.

Beyond its wartime history, Spam holds a special place in the culinary landscape of various cultures, most notably in Hawaii, where it is incredibly popular and features prominently in many local dishes. This makes perfect sense to me, as my own mother often served Spam alongside sweet pineapple, creating a delightful sweet and savory contrast that I remember fondly from my childhood. While some might view Spam with skepticism, its savory, slightly salty profile and unique texture contribute an unexpected depth of flavor and a satisfying chewiness to this pasta salad that truly transforms it. It’s a flavor booster that provides an irresistible umami punch, proving that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients yield the most delicious results. Embrace the Spam, and you’ll discover a new favorite.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Spam Pasta Salad

Crafting this exceptional pasta salad requires a selection of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, be sure to consult the printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.

For the Creamy, Tangy Dressing:

Mayonnaise: The base of our rich and creamy dressing. Both full-fat and light varieties work wonderfully, so choose according to your preference. Full-fat mayo will yield a richer dressing.
Dill Pickle Juice: This is one of the two secret ingredients! It’s absolutely crucial for that distinctive tangy kick and briny flavor that makes the dressing so incredibly good. Don’t skip it!
Milk (Optional): You can add a splash of milk if you find the dressing a bit too thick for your liking. However, in my experience, the pickle juice usually provides enough liquid to achieve the perfect consistency, so I rarely feel the need to include it.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and aroma. You’ll notice that salt isn’t listed here; that’s because the Spam and dill pickle juice already contribute ample salinity, ensuring a perfectly seasoned salad without additional salt.

For the Hearty and Flavorful Salad Base:

Frozen Peas: These add a lovely pop of sweetness and vibrant green color. If you have fresh peas on hand, feel free to use them – just a quick blanch will suffice.
Cucumber: Diced cucumber brings a refreshing crunch and cool contrast to the salad. I personally prefer to leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients, but you can certainly peel them if that’s your preference.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion provides a mild sharpness and beautiful purple hue. It adds a crucial layer of flavor without being overpowering.
Roma Tomatoes: Diced Roma tomatoes contribute a fresh, juicy sweetness and a delightful burst of color. Their firm flesh holds up well in the salad.
Spam: The second secret ingredient! Diced Spam offers a unique savory, umami flavor and a satisfying texture that truly defines this pasta salad. Its presence is non-negotiable for the authentic taste.
American Cheese (Optional): Some variations include cubed American cheese for added creaminess and a milder flavor. While it can be a nice addition, I find the salad perfectly delicious without it and typically omit it.
Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape for this type of salad. It’s essential to cook the macaroni al dente, ensuring it has a slight bite and doesn’t become mushy. After cooking, rinse it thoroughly in cold water and drain well to prevent sticking and cool it down rapidly, which helps maintain texture.

Crafting Your Spam Pasta Salad: A Simple Guide to Deliciousness

Creating this incredibly satisfying Spam Pasta Salad is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to bring this family-favorite dish to life. The key to its irresistible flavor lies in thoughtful preparation and allowing the ingredients time to meld.

Begin by cooking your elbow macaroni according to package directions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain it thoroughly, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta, then place it into a generously sized mixing bowl. This ensures your pasta remains firm and separate, forming an ideal base for the salad.

Next, prepare the star of the show: the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, that essential dill pickle juice, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The pickle juice infuses the dressing with its characteristic tang, perfectly balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.

Once your dressing is perfectly emulsified, set it aside. This allows the flavors to begin to develop while you prepare the remaining salad components.

Now it’s time to incorporate the fresh elements. Add all your carefully chopped vegetables – the vibrant peas, crisp cucumber, sharp red onion, and juicy Roma tomatoes – along with the diced Spam to the bowl of cooked pasta. Gently toss these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.

Finally, pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Stir everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta and every vegetable is generously coated in the creamy, flavorful dressing. This step is crucial for distributing the distinct tastes evenly throughout the salad.

For the absolute best flavor experience, I highly recommend making this salad at least a day ahead of when you plan to serve it. This allows ample time for all the flavors to truly meld and deepen, resulting in a far more complex and satisfying taste. Store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep or upcoming gatherings. The longer it chills, the better it gets!

A beautifully presented bowl of Spam pasta salad, garnished and ready for serving.

Loved This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

If this Spam Pasta Salad has captured your culinary heart, or if you’re excited to try it, make sure you don’t lose track of this incredible recipe! Save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go. This way, you’ll always have it handy for your next potluck, barbecue, or weeknight meal when you’re craving something truly special.

Explore More Delicious Recipes to Adore

My family absolutely adores the unique combination of ingredients found in this Spam Pasta Salad, and I’m confident yours will too. If you’re eager to explore more fantastic pasta salad creations featuring Spam, you absolutely must try this delightful Hawaiian Macaroni Salad! It’s another excellent way to enjoy the savory goodness of Spam in a refreshing cold dish.

Are pasta salads your ultimate go-to for gatherings, picnics, or simple weeknight sides? Then you’ll be thrilled to discover more of my cherished recipes. My Mom’s Macaroni Salad recipe is nothing short of incredible, offering a classic comfort food experience. For those who love a hearty, fresh salad, this flavorful BLT Pasta Salad is a must-try. And if you’re in the mood for something with an Italian flair, my vibrant Antipasto Pasta Salad is packed with delicious flavors and textures.

But don’t toss out that precious dill pickle juice just yet! Its tangy brine is a secret weapon in many of my favorite recipes, not just this pasta salad. If you share my love for all things dill pickle, you absolutely have to try my incredibly popular Dill Pickle Dip – it’s perfect for parties. And for a truly addictive snack or appetizer, my Dill Pickle Cheese Ball recipe is simply yum! Each of these recipes leverages the bright, briny flavor of dill pickles in unique and delicious ways.

A refreshing glass of iced tea next to a bowl of Spam pasta salad on a summer table.

I sincerely hope that you and your loved ones enjoy this Spam Pasta Salad as much as my family and I do. It’s a truly special recipe that brings smiles to every table!

LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!

Overhead shot of a clear bowl filled with delicious Spam Pasta Salad.

Rated 4.61 out of 5 stars from 23 votes

Print Recipe

Pasta Salad

This is hands down one of the best salad recipes on my website. Pasta Salad made with elbow macaroni, fresh vegetables, baby peas, and Spam, topped with a dressing made of mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, and black pepper. It may sound too simple to be epic – but I promise that everyone will keep coming back for more!

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Additional Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 17 mins
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cookout side dishes, dill pickle, Grandma’s recipe, macaroni, old fashioned, pasta salad, Spam
Servings: 15 servings
Calories: 245 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Spam Classic, 12 Ounce Can
Oggi Mixing Bowl, 4 Quart
12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener

Ingredients

15 ounces of mayonnaise
1/4 cup dill pickle juice
Milk to thin sauce (optional, I didn’t use it)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces frozen peas (about 1 cup)
1 cucumber, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
Red onion, chopped, to taste (about 1 cup)
2-3 Roma tomatoes, diced
1 can Spam, diced
Cubed American cheese (optional, I didn’t use it)
1 pound package of small elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained

Instructions

Whisk together mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, and black pepper. Set aside.
Boil pasta until it’s al dente, rinse in cold water, and put it in a large mixing bowl.
Chop all of the veggies and Spam, and cheese if you desire.
Toss pasta and chopped ingredients in a large bowl, cover with dressing, and stir to coat.
Refrigerate for 8 hours before eating for optimal flavor.

Notes

I personally find that the dressing has the perfect consistency without adding milk, so I typically omit it. Similarly, I usually don’t include the optional American cheese, as the salad is incredibly flavorful on its own.

For the best taste experience, this salad truly benefits from resting in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Also, be aware that substituting ham for Spam will significantly alter the unique taste profile of this recipe.

Nutrition

This recipe was originally posted on June 3, 2013. It has been thoroughly updated to improve user experience, enhance clarity, and refresh visuals, then re-shared on May 21, 2023, ensuring its continued relevance and deliciousness for years to come.