Cold macaroni salad is a classic potluck staple, a crowd-pleasing side dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Its creamy texture, combined with the delightful chewiness of the pasta and a vibrant mix of vegetables and seasonings, makes it a perfect accompaniment to barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering. This versatile dish can be easily customized to your preferences, allowing you to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, and dressings to create your signature flavor profile. Whether you prefer a tangy vinegar base or a rich mayonnaise dressing, the possibilities are endless.
This quick and easy recipe delivers a delicious cold macaroni salad that's sure to become a family favorite. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparation times; this recipe emphasizes simplicity and speed, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish without the fuss. Ready to dive in and create your own perfect bowl of creamy, flavorful cold macaroni salad? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Colander
- Container
Ingredients
- Water: 3 liters
- Elbow pasta: 450g
- Celery: 3 stalks
- Apple: 1
- Cheddar cheese: 225g
- Cooked ham: 340g
- Mayonnaise: 1.5 cups
- Black olives: 0.5 cups
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Cook Pasta and Prep Ingredients
- Boil 3 liters of water in a pot.
- wash and cut 3 stalks into small pieces.
- remove the stem, cut in half, then into four parts, and finally dice into small pieces.
- Once the water boils, add 450g of elbow pasta and a handful of salt. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes at medium-high heat.
- Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Cut 225g of cheddar cheese into small, visually appealing pieces.
- Cut 340g of cooked ham into small cubes.
Step 2. Combine Pasta and Dressing
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and 1.5 cups of mayonnaise. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 3. Add Remaining Ingredients
- Add the prepared ham, apple, and cheese to the pasta mixture. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Add 0.5 cups of black olives, pepper, and salt to taste. Mix again.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- Ensure the water is boiling before adding pasta for perfectly cooked pasta.
- Cut the ingredients into small pieces to ensure even distribution in the salad.
- Mix the mayonnaise and pasta gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. What kind of pasta should I use?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any small pasta shape you prefer, like shells, ditalini, or even rotini.
3. Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Different cheeses, herbs, or even hard-boiled eggs are great additions.
This quick and easy cold macaroni salad recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and creamy texture of this classic side dish, knowing you've created a delicious treat with minimal effort. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to impress your family and friends!