Cris' Macaroni Salad
Cris' Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy dish packed with olives, vegetables, and a hint of celery seed, perfect for picnics and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
- Drain the macaroni, then return it to the pot and let sit in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well.
- Pour the juice from one small jar of olives or half a large jar over the macaroni and mix.
- Dice the olives (about 3 slices each), onion, celery, and green pepper.
- Add the diced vegetables to the macaroni.
- If using tuna, omit the green pepper; add other vegetables, mix, then add tuna and mix.
- Add celery seed according to your preference and mix well.
- Add 5 to 6 tablespoons of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, adjusting to your taste.
- Mix very well until all ingredients are combined.
- Chill for approximately 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more Miracle Whip or mayonnaise to your taste. You can substitute the green pepper with diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist. If you're in a hurry, use pre-chopped vegetables or even frozen peas, which can be a great addition. For extra flavor, try incorporating a dash of garlic powder or your favorite herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Cris' Macaroni Salad is perfect for picnics or barbecues and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or hot dogs. Serve it chilled as a side dish alongside a fresh green salad or with crusty bread. For a unique twist, consider adding a side of Sweet And Salsa Meat Balls to create a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, so it's often even tastier the next day. If the salad thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a little more Miracle Whip or mayonnaise to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cris' Macaroni Salad contains roughly 275 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2144mg per serving (93% 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 macaroni salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This macaroni salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and mix it well before serving to refresh the flavors.
What can I substitute for Miracle Whip?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Each will provide a different taste profile, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the salad's deliciousness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this macaroni salad vegan, simply replace Miracle Whip or mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. You can also include additional vegetables such as bell peppers or even chickpeas for added texture and protein, aligning with vegan recipes.
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).