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Macaroni-Salad-Creamy-Make-Ahead-BBQ-Side-Dish-Recipe

Macaroni Salad | Creamy Make-Ahead BBQ Side Dish

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  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This macaroni salad is a delightful blend of creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, making it a must-have for any BBQ. Featuring tender elbow macaroni, diced bell peppers, celery, and a tangy dressing, this dish promises to be a hit at your next gathering. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 red bell pepper – finely diced
  • 4 ribs celery – finely diced
  • 1 small red onion – finely diced
  • ½ cup pickle relish
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 4 cloves garlic – minced
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp pickle juice
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tbsp kosher salt
  • ½ tbsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, reducing the cook time by one minute for al dente pasta. The pasta should be tender yet slightly firm.
  2. Immediately rinse the pasta with cold water and transfer it to a large bowl.
  3. In the bowl, add the diced bell pepper, celery, onion, and pickle relish.
  4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni salad and mix until the pasta is well-coated with the dressing.
  5. Refrigerate for one hour before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, let the salad chill overnight before serving.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what’s available.
This macaroni salad can be made a day in advance for a stress-free BBQ.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg