Simple Macaroni Salad

Bowl of simple macaroni salad with vegetables and dressing

Simple Macaroni Salad

Simple Macaroni Salad is a delicious and easy dish that everyone loves. This cold pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. It combines macaroni with fresh veggies and a creamy dressing, making it a tasty side dish or even a light meal.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Simple Macaroni Salad. First, it is quick to prepare and does not require cooking skills. Second, it is a great way to use up vegetables you have in your fridge. Finally, this salad is a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.

How to Make Simple Macaroni Salad

Making Simple Macaroni Salad is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. elbow macaroni noodles, uncooked
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mayo
  • 1/4 cup distilled vinegar
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, celery, red onion, red bell pepper, peas, and cheddar cheese.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayo, vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, pickle relish, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until well combined.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Simple Macaroni Salad

You can serve Simple Macaroni Salad cold or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or alone as a light and refreshing dish. Just scoop some onto a plate, and enjoy!

How to Store Simple Macaroni Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If the salad seems dry after storing, you can add a bit more mayo before serving.

Tips to Make Simple Macaroni Salad

  • Cook the macaroni al dente to avoid it getting mushy when mixed with the dressing.
  • Add more veggies like diced carrots or cucumbers for extra crunch.
  • Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Variation

You can customize Simple Macaroni Salad by adding ingredients like diced ham, cooked bacon, or chopped hard-boiled eggs. These additions can make the salad heartier and more satisfying.

FAQs

1. Can I make Simple Macaroni Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular elbow macaroni.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to change the flavor of the salad.

Print
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Simple Macaroni Salad

  • Author: mrrachidmohssine
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and easy cold pasta salad that combines macaroni with fresh veggies and creamy dressing, perfect for picnics and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb. elbow macaroni noodles, uncooked
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup distilled vinegar
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, celery, red onion, red bell pepper, peas, and cheddar cheese.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, pickle relish, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until well combined.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can customize this salad by adding diced ham, cooked bacon, or chopped hard-boiled eggs.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Cold Preparation
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: macaroni, salad, cold pasta, vegetable salad, picnic food

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