Curley Macaroni Salad

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A tangy and flavorful macaroni salad with crunchy vegetables, infused with vinegar and herbs, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or summertime gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. curley macaroni
  • 2/3 c. oil
  • 1 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1 1/2 c. vinegar
  • garlic salt
  • 1 tsp. parsley
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • celery
  • cucumbers
  • green pepper
  • carrot

Instructions

  1. Pour oil over the warm cooked macaroni and mix well.
  2. Combine sugar, vinegar, garlic salt, parsley, and pepper in a shaker and shake well.
  3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine.
  4. Chop celery, cucumbers, green pepper, and carrot finely and add to the macaroni.
  5. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or sour cream to the salad. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor. If you prefer a sweeter salad, adjust the sugar to taste. Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added crunch. For a twist, try incorporating some of the flavors from the Red And Green Layered Salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this macaroni salad chilled as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, or alongside grilled meats for a refreshing complement. It pairs beautifully with the Very Best Chocolate Cake(No Eggs) for dessert, making it a hit at gatherings. Consider adding a sprinkle of additional parsley on top for a fresh touch before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Curley Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the macaroni and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. When ready to serve, give it a good stir and add a splash of vinegar if it seems dry.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Curley Macaroni Salad contains roughly 530 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

530 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 40.6g 52% DV
Carbs 38.9g 14% DV
Fiber 4.8g 17% DV
Sugar 14.1g 28% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 48.2mg 2% DV
Potassium 445.5mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 43.8mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 36.9mg 41% DV
Calcium 52.1mg 4% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until serving. If the salad seems dry after sitting, add a little more oil or vinegar to refresh it.

What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?

You can customize this salad by adding vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even corn for sweetness. For a more colorful presentation, consider using cherry tomatoes or sweet peas. Just chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the macaroni.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Curley Macaroni Salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any vegetable options you choose, like mayonnaise, are plant-based. You can also explore other vegan recipes for great salad ideas to complement this dish.

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).

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