Sarasota's Basic Macaroni Salad

15m
Prep Time
15m
Cook Time
30m
Ready In


"This is my version of the classic Macaroni Salad. But, you can really change it up if you want. I've added ham, hard boiled eggs, capers, and artichokes; I've even added shrimp or chicken - or use black olives vs green, or add peas for a little sweetness and color. And, if you like a creamier salad, feel free to add a bit more mayo; I tend to go a bit lighter, as I don't like it too creamy. Note: If you are not a fan of mayonnaise, try adding half mayonnaise and half sour cream. It lightens up the dish, but still has great flavor. Greek yogurt can also be used."

Original is 4 servings
  • DRESSING

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (275.7 g)
  • Calories 461.5
  • Total Fat - 13.1 g
  • Saturated Fat - 1.8 g
  • Cholesterol - 15.5 mg
  • Sodium - 1461.4 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 60.7 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 7.1 g
  • Sugars - 3.6 g
  • Protein - 29.3 g
  • Calcium - 112 mg
  • Iron - 5.1 mg
  • Vitamin C - 17.3 mg
  • Thiamin - 0.4 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Pasta ... Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain and transfer to a bowl to cool.

Step 2

Vegetables ... Add all the vegetables, olives, and parsley and toss well.

Step 3

Dressing ... Mix the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper to a small bowl or measuring cup and mix well. Add most of the dressing to the salad and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving. NOTE: I like to add most of the dressing, but save a little because after the salad rests, it tends to soak up most of the dressing and you may need to add a bit more. As I said, if you like it creamier, you can add a bit more mayonnaise. I start with 3/4 cup for my taste. The same with the sugar, you can always add a bit more if you want. And, try using 1/2 mayonnaise and 1/2 sour cream or yogurt, if you like a bit lighter tasting dressing. Both work very well.

Step 4

Serve ... I like to garnish with a few chopped olives and a sprig of parsley. ENJOY! And, as mentioned, add some chicken or shrimp to make it a main deal. Or serve over a bed a greens for a lighter main salad dish.

Tips


No special items needed.

1 Reviews

JaneyFL

I added grape tomatoes sliced in half, artichoke hearts, and chopped carrots to the mix of vegetables. We loved this. I used just a little sugar as to not make it too sweet and it was great. I put in both black and green olives and added some small fresh shrimp chopped up. Delicious from fork to tummy!

5.0

review by:
(7 Jul 2013)

You'll Also Love