Description
A refreshing and easy macaroni salad perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different cheeses and veggies for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier options)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, cubed (can swap for mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup Onion, diced (red onion or green onion for milder or fresh taste)
- 1 cup Celery, diced (can substitute with bell peppers for sweetness and color)
- 1 cup Bell Pepper, diced (any vibrant color)
- 1 cup Peas (frozen peas recommended for convenience and sweetness)
Dressing
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative)
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (white vinegar can be used as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (parsley can be used instead)
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (optional, can be replaced with honey)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (yellow mustard as an alternative)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Combine Vegetables and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cubed cheddar cheese, diced onion, celery, bell pepper, and peas. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, fresh dill, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Mix Dressing and Pasta: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently stir to ensure everything is well-coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat or gluten-free elbow macaroni.
- Switch up the cheese type or use a dairy-free alternative based on dietary needs.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.
- The sugar in the dressing can be omitted or replaced with honey for natural sweetness.
- Make sure to chill the salad for at least one hour to enhance the flavor combination.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste to balance the flavors.
