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macaroni salad on plat

Macaroni Salad Recipe

This macaroni salad recipe blends creamy goodness with crisp, fresh ingredients to create a versatile side dish that works perfectly for picnics, BBQs, or a simple family meal. Enjoy the tangy crunch of sweet gherkins and red bell pepper mixed with a luscious dressing that can be easily adapted to suit your taste.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 235 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Transparent Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Refrigerator
  • Parchment-lined Tray

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dry macaroni noodles (227g)
  • 0.5 cup finely diced sweet gherkins (about 4-6 pieces or 80g)
  • 0.75 cup finely diced red bell pepper (roughly ½ pepper or 100g)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional extras: chopped celery, hard-boiled eggs, splash of vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Boil a large pot of salted water, add the macaroni noodles and cook until al dente (approximately 7-8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Dice the red bell pepper and sweet gherkins into small, uniform pieces. Optionally, add diced celery for extra crunch.
  • In a large transparent bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth. For a healthier twist, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • Gently fold the cooled macaroni and chopped vegetables into the dressing. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Before serving, stir the salad, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Optionally, add extra mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil for a creamier texture.

Notes

This macaroni salad is a perfect blend of creamy texture and fresh, tangy flavors. It’s a versatile side dish that can be served at picnics, BBQs, or family meals. Best enjoyed chilled to enhance its refreshing taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 235kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
Keyword filipino style, macaroni salad, macaroni salad recipe tin, potato salad, salad recipes
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