Description
Indulge in a refreshing twist on a classic favorite with this Healthy Macaroni Salad Recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, this salad is not only creamy but also nutritious, thanks to the protein-rich chickpea pasta and whipped cottage cheese. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or meal prep, this dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a satisfying stand-alone meal. With crisp fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing that brings everything together, it’s a delightful option for warm weather dining. Whip it up in no time and give your taste buds a treat while keeping health in check!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces chickpea pasta
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup cottage cheese (whipped)
- 3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1 splash pickle juice
- 1/4 cup chornicons (diced)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green) (finely diced)
- 3/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1 stalk celery (finely diced)
Instructions
- Cook the chickpea pasta in salted boiling water for about 7 minutes or until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water before transferring to an ice bath.
- In a blender or food processor, whip the cottage cheese until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whipped cottage cheese, mayonnaise, vinegar (start with 3 tablespoons), salt, sugar, and pickle juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Dice the vegetables finely while the pasta cools. Combine cooled pasta with vegetables in the bowl of dressing; stir gently until well coated.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg