Grandmom Strouse'S Macaroni Salad
A vibrant macaroni salad featuring shrimp, tomatoes, eggs, and celery, coated in creamy mayonnaise, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings with fresh, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the box directions.
- Rinse the cooked macaroni with cool water and drain well.
- Add the shrimp and the liquid from the can to the macaroni.
- Slice the hard-boiled eggs and add to the macaroni mixture.
- Dice the celery and wedge the tomatoes, then add to the mixture.
- Add mayonnaise by the tablespoon until the macaroni mixture is well coated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier macaroni salad, consider adding a splash of pickle juice or a teaspoon of mustard to the mayonnaise. If you want to enhance the flavor, try using Old Bay seasoning with the shrimp. Feel free to substitute the shrimp with crab or diced chicken for variations. Adding chopped bell peppers can also give it a nice crunch, pairing beautifully with Broiled Salmon With Cucumbers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs well with grilled meats, especially burgers and hot dogs, making it a great addition to any summer spread. Consider serving it alongside Seafood recipes for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent it from drying out. If the salad seems dry after refrigerating, add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmom Strouse'S Macaroni Salad contains roughly 239 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% 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?
Yes, you can prepare this macaroni salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if using fresh tomatoes, consider adding them just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use shrimp, you can easily substitute it with cooked chicken, crab meat, or even canned tuna for a different flavor. Each option will give the salad its own unique twist while still keeping it hearty and satisfying.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version that still maintains creaminess. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like peas or carrots can add bulk and nutrients while reducing calories.
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).