Delightful Macaroni Salad Recipe: A Refreshing Twist
Description
This unique macaroni salad recipe, sourced from a Womenโs Institute Cookbook, presents an innovative departure from traditional versions, eschewing mayonnaise in favor of a zesty dressing. With its combination of flavors and textures, it serves as an excellent option for lunches or snacks, delivering a refreshing change that your family and friends are sure to enjoy. Perfectly suited for summer picnics or casual gatherings, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also embodies a healthy, low-cholesterol profile.
Recipe Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Lunch/Snacks |
| Recipe Servings | 6 |
| Keywords | Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 30 Mins, Easy |
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients required to create this delightful macaroni salad, ensuring that each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Macaroni | 1 cup |
| Salmon | 1 can |
| Shrimp | 1 1/2 cups (cooked) |
| Onion | 1/2 (finely chopped) |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| White Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional aspects of your dish is essential, especially when catering to specific dietary preferences or restrictions. Hereโs the breakdown of calories and key nutrients in this macaroni salad:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 377.1 |
| Total Fat | 19.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 18.5 mg |
| Sodium | 288.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 23.5 g |
| Protein | 11.6 g |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delightful macaroni salad, ensuring that each stage is executed with care to enhance the final dish’s flavor profile.
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Cook the Macaroni: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add 1 cup of macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and allow it to cool slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the cooked macaroni, 1 can of drained salmon, 1 1/2 cups of cooked shrimp, and the finely chopped onion. The combination of seafood adds a delightful heartiness to the salad, balancing the softer pasta.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until the mixture is well combined and smooth. This dressing brings a unique sweetness and tanginess to the salad, elevating the overall flavor.
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Mix Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the macaroni and seafood mixture, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste of each bite.
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Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir and serve it cold. This macaroni salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a delightful side dish, perfect for any gathering.
Final Thoughts
This macaroni salad not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a nutritious, low-cholesterol option that can be made quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy days. The delightful combination of flavors from the seafood and zesty dressing creates a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing, making it a standout addition to your lunch or snack repertoire. Enjoy this easy-to-make salad as a way to bring something new and delicious to your table!
