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Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a delightful summer staple perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. This vibrant dish features tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy mayo-yogurt dressing that creates a unique tangy flavor. Its customizable nature allows for the addition of seasonal veggies or proteins, making it adaptable to any palate. Whether served as a main dish alongside grilled chicken or as a side with burgers and ribs, this macaroni salad is sure to please your guests. Quick to prepare and great for meal prep, it’s the ideal solution for busy days when you need something delicious and satisfying.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ pound short pasta (macaroni, elbows, or rotini)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 carrot (grated)
  • 1 red onion (finely chopped)
  • ½ cup dill pickles (chopped)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional – sub maple or honey)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Add the frozen peas halfway through cooking.
  2. Drain the pasta and peas using a colander; rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta and peas with diced vegetables. Pour in the dressing and mix well.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge before serving.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for best results. Feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumbers or corn for more crunch.