Carrousel Salad Bowl
A creamy, colorful pasta salad featuring tender macaroni, diced ham, crunchy celery, and sweet green peas, all coated in a tangy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to the directions on the box.
- While still hot, drizzle with salad oil and vinegar.
- Add minced onion, salt, pepper, and grated cheese.
- Toss well to combine.
- Gently mix in drained green peas, diced cooked ham, diced celery, and mayonnaise.
- Chill thoroughly before serving on salad greens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked macaroni or frozen peas. Adding a handful of grated cheese can enhance the flavor, and try using different types of pasta for a fun twist. This salad pairs beautifully with Quick And Creamy Salad for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Carrousel Salad Bowl on a bed of fresh salad greens for a vibrant presentation. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with Mary'S Best Pecan Pie to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad thickens during storage, add a splash of vinegar or a bit of mayonnaise to loosen it up before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients may be compromised.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrousel Salad Bowl contains roughly 364 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1672mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just ensure it's well covered and chilled in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, making it even tastier when served.
What can I substitute for the ham?
For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham entirely or replace it with diced tofu or chickpeas. This will maintain the salad's protein content while catering to dietary preferences.
Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for added color and crunch. You can also include fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).