Karen'S Macaroni Salad
A creamy, flavorful macaroni salad with cheese, peas, and crunchy celery, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a cool side dish for any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain well.
- Combine cooked macaroni with diced cheddar cheese, thawed peas, sliced celery, and chopped onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, milk, seasoned salt, parsley flakes, sugar, and pepper.
- Stir in vinegar into the mayonnaise mixture.
- Add the dressing to the macaroni mixture and stir well to combine.
- Cover the salad and chill thoroughly in the refrigerator.
- Stir gently before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack instead of just cheddar. If you want a creamier texture, increase the amount of mayonnaise slightly. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also enhance the taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be a great substitute. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni salad chilled as a delightful side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed alongside vegetarian recipes like Sauteed Zucchini And Onions. For a complete meal, consider adding rotisserie chicken or a fresh garden salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may thicken as it sits; if so, stir in a little milk or mayo to loosen it up before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the macaroni and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Karen'S Macaroni Salad contains roughly 213 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% 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! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise, providing creaminess and a tangy flavor. You could also use a vinaigrette for a different twist, but adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain flavor balance.
Is it okay to add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to customize this salad with your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, diced cucumbers, or even shredded carrots can add a nice crunch and boost the nutrition. Ensure that any additional vegetables are finely chopped to maintain a cohesive texture.
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).