Peggy'S Macaroni Salad
A flavorful and creamy macaroni salad with crispy bacon, sweet peas, and fresh tomatoes, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings with a savory twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
- Fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
- Thaw the green peas and drain excess moisture.
- Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, green peas, diced tomatoes, and chopped onion.
- Add salad dressing of choice to taste, then season with salt and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor profile. If using frozen peas, ensure they're thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Peggy's Macaroni Salad is perfect for summer picnics or barbecues, pairing beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or ribs. It can also be served alongside other classic dishes such as Layered Cauliflower Salad or Sausage Baked Beans for a hearty meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for added color and flavor just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, avoid freezing, as it can cause the ingredients to become mushy. When ready to serve, give it a good stir, and if needed, add a little extra dressing to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Macaroni Salad contains roughly 235 calories, with 8g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% 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! This macaroni salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together nicely, making it even tastier. Just remember to add a little extra dressing before serving if it seems dry.
What type of salad dressing works best for this recipe?
The choice of salad dressing depends on your preference. A classic mayonnaise-based dressing works well, but you can also use a vinaigrette for a lighter option. Experiment with different flavors, such as ranch or Italian dressing, to find your favorite combination.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! This macaroni salad is versatile, and you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well with the other ingredients and enhance the overall 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).