Best Macaroni Salad
A delightful and vibrant dish that never fails to please at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings, this Best Macaroni Salad is an easy, adaptable recipe that showcases the classic combination of elbow macaroni and a creamy, tangy dressing. While the fundamental ingredients lay the groundwork for this beloved salad, feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or what’s available in your pantry. For instance, you can omit the tuna and introduce sliced radishes or chopped scallions to add a fresh crunch and a burst of color.
This recipe includes preparation time for cooking the macaroni, although it does not account for the chilling time necessary for the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare this salad in a flash—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick side dish that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 8 | elbow macaroni |
| 1 | tuna (canned, drained) |
| 1 | green pepper (diced) |
| 1 | tomato (diced) |
| 1 | low-fat mayonnaise |
| 2 | vinegar |
| 2 | prepared mustard |
| 1 1/2 | salt |
| 1/8 | pepper |
| 1/2 | celery seed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 239.8 |
| Total Fat | 1.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 906.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugars | 2.7 g |
| Protein | 8.6 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Macaroni: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. This will also help to keep the macaroni from sticking together.
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Prepare the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, drained tuna, diced green pepper, and diced tomato. Gently fold these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution without breaking the pasta.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the low-fat mayonnaise, vinegar, prepared mustard, salt, pepper, and celery seed until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing adds the creamy texture and zesty flavor that makes this salad irresistible.
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Combine the Dressing and Salad: Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
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Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a quick stir and taste for seasoning, adjusting with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve the macaroni salad chilled, either as a main dish or as a side, and watch it disappear quickly!
Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad
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Customization Options: Feel free to modify the recipe based on your preferences. You might consider adding ingredients like chopped hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or olives for extra flavor and texture. Experimenting with different vegetables or even cheese can also elevate this dish.
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Storage: Leftover macaroni salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of mayonnaise or a little vinegar to freshen it up before serving.
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Serving Suggestions: This macaroni salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread. It’s a versatile dish that shines at any gathering or meal occasion.
With its quick preparation time of just 15 minutes and its ability to please a crowd, this Best Macaroni Salad stands out as an essential recipe for your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying a casual family dinner or hosting a summer cookout, this salad brings a touch of comfort and joy to every plate.
