Tomato - Macaroni Salad
A creamy, tangy tomato macaroni salad that balances sweet relish, fresh peppers, and tomato soup for a cool, crowd‑pleasing side perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shells according to package directions.
- Drain the shells.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained shells with oil, vinegar, sugar, sweet relish, chopped onions, salt, tomato soup, and chopped green peppers.
- Refrigerate the mixture until cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt to the salad mixture. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup. You can also use whole grain pasta shells for added nutrition. For additional flavor, try adding diced celery or shredded carrots. This dish also pairs well with Lean And Tasty Quick Chili for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tomato-macaroni salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs nicely with grilled meats or sandwiches and can be a colorful addition to any potluck. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a light salad, like Broccoli And Potato Salad, or as a filling lunch option with slices of crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the macaroni salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate. If it seems dry, add a splash of vinegar or a drizzle of oil to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato - Macaroni Salad contains roughly 1662 calories, with 10g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2198mg per serving (96% 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. Stir it again before serving to ensure everything is well combined.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. You may want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Alternatively, for a twist, try using a roasted red pepper soup for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the ingredients are plant-based. Look for vegan-friendly tomato soup and omit any non-vegan ingredients. You can also add more veggies like cucumbers or carrots for texture and flavor while keeping it aligned 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).