Description
Easy Macaroni Salad is the ultimate summer side dish, perfect for any gathering. This creamy and colorful salad combines tender elbow macaroni with fresh vegetables like crunchy celery, vibrant red bell pepper, and sweet peas, all tossed in a rich dressing of mayo, apple cider vinegar, and dill. With only 10 minutes of prep time, this salad is a breeze to make and can be chilled ahead of time for added convenience. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, attending a potluck, or just looking for a light meal option, Easy Macaroni Salad will impress your guests and elevate any meal with its delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 6 oz cheddar cheese (cubed)
- 1/2 red onion (minced)
- 4 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cubed cheese, minced onion, diced celery, diced bell pepper, and frozen peas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo, apple cider vinegar, fresh dill, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added protein, mix in diced ham or chicken. Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Ensure to chill the salad before serving to enhance flavors.