Macaroni salad is a summertime classic, with its creamy dressing, tantalizing mix-ins, and refreshing flavors, it’s the perfect dish for any gathering.
Macaroni salad is a summertime classic that never fails to impress.This versatile and refreshing dish has been a staple of picnics, barbecues, and potlucks for generations.
Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or put your own spin on it, this versatile salad is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, embrace your creativity, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds singing the praises of your homemade macaroni salad. Enjoy the summer, and happy cooking!
Choosing the Perfect Pasta
The foundation of any remarkable macaroni salad is, of course, the pasta. Opt for a small pasta shape with ridges or curves to capture the dressing and ingredients. Shells, elbow macaroni, rotini, or cavatappi are excellent choices, as their nooks and crannies hold the flavors exceptionally well. Cook the pasta al dente, following the package instructions, to ensure a delightful texture.
The Creamy Dressing for Macaroni Salad
The creamy dressing is what sets a macaroni salad apart. A combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and a touch of Dijon mustard creates a luscious and tangy base. For those seeking a healthier option, Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and mayonnaise can be substituted. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of garlic powder for a subtle zing.
Flavorful Mix-ins
Now comes the fun part – adding a medley of vibrant and crunchy mix-ins that elevate the flavor profile of your macaroni salad. This recipe sticks to the classic peas, carrots, tomatoes, and cheese. You can mix things up a bit by incorporating other ingredients like finely chopped red onion, celery, bell peppers, and pickles. They not only add a refreshing crunch but also introduce a burst of color to the dish.
Herbs and Seasonings
To infuse your macaroni salad with an herbaceous twist, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives work wonders. Finely chop them and gently fold them into the salad for a burst of freshness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you desire an extra kick, a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a subtle heat.
Allowing the Flavors to Marry
Once you have combined all the ingredients, allow your macaroni salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight. This step helps the flavors meld together, creating a harmonious taste that will have everyone begging for your recipe. Remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to ensure an even distribution of the dressing.
Endless Variations to add in Macaroni Salad
While the classic macaroni salad recipe is undoubtedly delicious, don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature version. Consider incorporating grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or shrimp for added protein. For a Mediterranean twist, toss in some feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and olives. The possibilities are endless, and customization is key to crafting a macaroni salad that reflects your personal taste.
More Summer Favorites!
Homemade Baked Beans: Homemade baked beans that are made with crispy bacon, onion, green pepper, molasses, and brown sugar. Easy to throw together and tastes even better when made ahead.
Italian Pasta Salad: Easy Italian pasta salad that is bursting with color and flavor! Lots of veggies and tri-color pasta make this a beautiful side dish for a party.
Tangy Cucumber Salad: Sweet and tangy cucumber salad in a homemade red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect summer salad to use up your garden vegetables!
7 Layer Salad: A classic 7 layer salad that is crisp with a creamy dressing. Full of chopped lettuce, celery, green pepper, onions, cheese, tomatoes, and bacon, this salad makes a quick and easy side dish!
Blender Salsa: A delicious blender salsa that is done in 5 minutes. Fresh tomatoes make it taste like it’s from your favorite restaurant!
Homemade Creamy Guacamole: Smooth and creamy homemade guacamole that tastes better than store bought! So easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
Brandy Slushies: A frozen mixture of brandy, lemonade, orange juice, and black tea topped off with 7up. Brandy Slushies are perfect for the summer!
Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles: Classic Romanian pickles flavored with banana hot peppers, garlic, and dill. Crunchy and delicious with a spicy kick!
Strawberry Lemonade Margaritas: Strawberry Lemonade Margaritas with only 3 ingredients. An easy and refreshing summer cocktail!
Blueberry Whiskey Lemonade: A refreshing summer drink to cool you off on those hot summer days. Made with fresh blueberries, a homemade blueberry syrup, and honey whiskey.
Ingredients for Macaroni Salad
1 pound uncooked shell pasta
12 ounce frozen package of peas and carrots
1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 Tablespoon sugar
squeeze of lemon juice
pinch of garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
How to make Macaroni Salad
Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters or halves, depending on what size you want. Set aside
Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the box instructions, to al dente.
Drain and rinse in cool water. Make sure all the water is drained, then add the pasta to a big bowl.
Microwave the frozen peas and carrots for one minute. Remove, carefully open the bag and pour the vegetables in the bowl with the pasta.
Add in the quartered tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese.
To make the creamy dressing:
Mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, sugar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour over the pasta mixture and mix everything together evenly.
Refrigerate for at least one hour, or even overnight. Make sure to stir everything up again before serving!
Stays good for 3-4 days when refrigerated. Keep in the refrigerator when not serving.
Macaroni Salad
Description
Macaroni salad is a summertime classic, with its creamy dressing and refreshing flavors, it’s the perfect dish for any potluck or barbeque.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters or halves, depending on what size you want. Set aside
- Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the box instructions, to al dente.
- Drain and rinse in cool water. Make sure all the water is drained, then add the pasta to a big bowl.
- Microwave the frozen peas and carrots for one minute. Remove, carefully open the bag and pour the vegetables in the bowl with the pasta.
- Add in the quartered tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese.
- To make the creamy dressing:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, sugar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour over the pasta mixture and mix everything together evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour, or even overnight. Make sure to stir everything up again before serving!
Notes
- Stays good for 3-4 days when refrigerated. Keep in the refrigerator when not serving.
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