Description
This Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad is a refreshing and versatile side dish that combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with vibrant vegetables and a rich, tangy dressing. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The creamy texture blends beautifully with the crunch of fresh veggies, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite proteins like turkey for extra heartiness. Serve chilled to enhance the flavors, and watch it become a go-to recipe for gatherings throughout the year.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped turkey slices (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Italian dressing, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and parsley until well combined.
- If desired, fold in chopped turkey slices and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg