This Easy Creamy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad is the ultimate picnic dish! Packed with pasta, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s so tasty and colorful that it will brighten any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds the dressing well! If you want something different, try shells or fusilli for a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: The base of the creamy dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo. Both work great!
Mustard: Yellow mustard is a favorite for its tanginess, but Dijon adds a nice kick! Use whichever you prefer or even skip it if you’re not a fan.
Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness! You can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a similar zing.
Veggies: Celery, carrots, red onion, and bell pepper bring crunch and color. Feel free to add peas, corn, or even chopped dill for variety!
Hard Boiled Egg: It adds creaminess and protein. If you want to keep it vegan, leave this out or try avocado for a creamy substitute.
How Do I Make Creamy Dressing Smooth and Balanced?
Making the dressing right is key to a delicious macaroni salad! Here are the steps:
- Start by whisking the mayonnaise and mustard together until smooth.
- Add apple cider vinegar and sugar to balance the flavors. The sugar helps with tartness, so don’t skip it!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Always taste your dressing; you can adjust as needed!
- Mix the dressing thoroughly with the cooled macaroni so each noodle is well coated.
Letting the salad chill in the fridge helps the flavors develop, making it even tastier when it’s time to eat! Enjoy your creamy mac salad! 🥗
Easy Creamy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish or chopped sweet pickles (optional)
- 1 hard boiled egg, chopped (optional for extra creaminess and texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of chill time in the refrigerator. In total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is how we get the tasty flavor base for our pasta salad!
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled elbow macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold them together with a spatula or spoon until all the pasta is well coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the crunch! Stir in the finely chopped celery, carrots, red onion, and red bell pepper. If you’re using sweet pickle relish, add that in too. Stir everything gently to combine.
5. Add the Optional Hard Boiled Egg:
If you want an extra creamy and rich texture, fold in the chopped hard boiled egg. This is totally optional, but it adds a nice touch!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets all the flavors meld together, making the salad even tastier! Once chilled, serve it cold. Enjoy this refreshing side dish at your next picnic or barbecue!
This Easy Creamy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad is packed with flavors and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, and it will work perfectly in this salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Macaroni Salad?
You can store leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or separate a bit when chilled.
Can I Make This Macaroni Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, use vegan mayonnaise or a plant-based yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise, and skip the hard boiled egg. The salad will still be creamy and delicious!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this salad with plenty of veggies! Try adding peas, corn, diced cucumber, or even chopped bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Just remember to chop them finely for the best texture!
