Description
A creamy, colorful macaroni salad made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, sweet peas, and a tangy mayo-Greek yogurt dressing. It's a refreshing side dish that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
½ pound elbow macaroni or other short pasta
1 cup frozen peas
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, grated
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 rib celery, thinly sliced
½ cup dill pickles, chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Add the frozen peas halfway through the cooking time.
- Drain the pasta and peas, then rinse briefly under cold water for about 15 seconds to stop the cooking process. Drain well and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and peas with the diced bell pepper, grated carrot, chopped red onion, sliced celery, and chopped dill pickles.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until chilled. Stir well before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Add diced cheddar cheese or chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
Substitute chopped cucumber for added freshness and crunch.
Mix in crispy cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Fresh dill or parsley makes a bright garnish.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving and add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise if the salad thickens.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the dressing and vegetables may be affected.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 326 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
