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Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A vibrant and creamy Macaroni Salad featuring elbow macaroni, fresh vegetables, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and a luscious plant-based mayo dressing. Perfectly balanced with tangy dill pickles, apple cider vinegar, and fresh herbs, this easy-to-make salad is a refreshing, satisfying side for any occasion, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup plant-based mayo (natural)
  • 1/3 cup chopped dill pickles (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, helping to keep the salad chilled.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Veggies: While the pasta cooks, lightly fry the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Chop the cucumber, red bell pepper, dill pickles, and any additional desired vegetables into small, uniform pieces for even flavor distribution.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together plant-based mayo (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), yellow mustard (natural), salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and dill to enhance freshness and aroma.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooled macaroni, crispy smoked turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and dressing until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold for optimal refreshment and crunch.

Notes

  • Cook pasta to al dente to keep firm texture and avoid mushiness in the salad.
  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor and appearance.
  • Chill the salad thoroughly before serving to meld the flavors.
  • If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar (natural) to loosen it.
  • Mix gently to avoid breaking the pasta while ensuring even coating of dressing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 530 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg

Keywords: macaroni salad, plant-based mayo, smoked turkey bacon, summer salad, picnic side dish, creamy pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/macaroni-salad/