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–+ servings
Creamy macaroni salad in a bowl with colorful vegetables and dressing

Macaroni Salad

A vibrant and creamy macaroni salad filled with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Picnic
Servings 6 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Peas

  • ½ pound short pasta (macaroni, elbows, rotini, or other) Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 cup frozen peas Add to pasta during the last half of cooking.

Vegetables

  • 1 red bell pepper (diced) Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 carrot (grated) Provides sweetness.
  • 1 red onion (finely chopped) For a hint of sharpness.
  • 1 rib celery (thinly sliced) Adds crunch.
  • ½ cup dill pickles (chopped) For a tangy flavor.

Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo) Use high-quality for the best flavor.
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt) Adds creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar For acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For a bit of zest.
  • 1 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper To taste.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional - sub maple or honey) For a hint of sweetness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook according to package instructions.
  • About halfway through the pasta's cooking time, toss in the frozen peas directly into the same pot.

Cooling

  • Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and immediately rinse it under cold water for about 15 seconds.

Making the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar.

Combining Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and peas with the diced vegetables.
  • Pour the creamy dressing over everything and mix well.

Serving

  • Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. If the salad thickens, stir in a bit more dressing before serving. You can also freeze it, but the texture may change upon thawing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword Comfort Food, Macaroni Salad, Pasta Salad, Potluck, Summer Salad
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