Best 4 Macaroni Garden Salad Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

Macaroni garden salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of macaroni pasta with an array of colorful vegetables, herbs, and dressings. Originating in the United States, this salad has become a staple at picnics, potlucks, and backyard barbecues, thanks to its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to cater to various dietary preferences. Whether you are a seasoned salad enthusiast or new to the world of garden salads, this ultimate guide to macaroni garden salad will equip you with everything you need to create a delicious and memorable dish that will be the star of your next gathering.

Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!

GARDEN TUNA MACARONI SALAD



Garden Tuna Macaroni Salad image

"I knew this recipe was a hit the first time I served it at a barbecue and got wonderful compliments," recalls Scarlett Hilton in Sabina, Ohio. "I even got a phone call afterward suggesting that I open a restaurant!" We have to agree this cool, creamy and crunchy salad really is delicious.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 can (6 ounces) light water-packed tuna, drained and flaked
2/3 cup chopped sweet yellow pepper
2/3 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup shredded carrot
1/4 cup diced radishes
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
3/4 cup Miracle Whip
1/2 cup ranch salad dressing
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Steps:

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine tuna, vegetables and parsley. Drain macaroni and rinse in cold water; add to tuna mixture., In a small bowl, combine Miracle Whip, ranch dressing, Parmesan cheese and pepper. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts :

MACARONI GARDEN SALAD



Macaroni Garden Salad image

Bonnie Sturgeon of Berwick, New Brunswick enjoys making this delightful salad during the summer. Tomato, cucumber and sweet red pepper are tossed with macaroni and herbs, then coated in a creamy fat-free mayonnaise dressing. Serve it as a light lunch or as a side dish with your favorite meat for supper.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 2 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
1/2 cup chopped seeded cucumber
1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
2 tablespoons fat-free mayonnaise
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • In a bowl, combine the macaroni, tomato, cucumber, red pepper, basil and parsley. In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, oil, vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper until blended. Pour over macaroni mixture and stir until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 181 calories, Fat 6g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 2mg cholesterol, Sodium 426mg sodium, Carbohydrate 29g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

MACARONI GARDEN SALAD



Macaroni Garden Salad image

This is a pasta salad with lots of vegetables and it is easy to prepare.

Provided by Sandy

Categories     Salad     Vegetable Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 5

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 (16 ounce) package macaroni
2 cucumbers, peeled and diced
4 tomatoes, chopped
1 onion, finely diced
4 stalks celery, diced
1 (15 ounce) can peas, drained
1 cup mayonnaise
1 head iceberg lettuce

Steps:

  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, rinse under cold water and drain.
  • In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, celery, peas and mayonnaise. Mix well, chill, and serve on crisp lettuce leaves.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 751.5 calories, Carbohydrate 89 g, Cholesterol 16.7 mg, Fat 37.1 g, Fiber 9.4 g, Protein 17.8 g, SaturatedFat 5.6 g, Sodium 457.8 mg, Sugar 12 g

GARDEN MACARONI SALAD



Garden Macaroni Salad image

Mustard and dill give this colorful salad a wonderful flavor, different from other pasta salads.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
1 cup fresh broccoli florets
1 small onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped peeled cucumber
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup sliced radishes
4 ounces Swiss cheese, cubed
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
1 tablespoon sugar
4-1/2 teaspoons snipped fresh dill or 1-1/2 teaspoons dill weed

Steps:

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, broccoli, onion, carrot, cucumber, peas, radishes and cheese., In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, sugar and dill. Pour over macaroni mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 314 calories, Fat 26g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 23mg cholesterol, Sodium 247mg sodium, Carbohydrate 13g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 6g protein.

Tips:

  • For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables whenever possible.
  • Don't overcook the macaroni. It should be al dente, with a slight bite to it.
  • Use a variety of vegetables to add color and flavor to your salad. Some good options include tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and carrots.
  • If you're using canned vegetables, be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to your salad.
  • Use a light dressing to allow the flavors of the vegetables to shine through. A vinaigrette or Italian dressing is a good option.
  • Season your salad to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish your salad with fresh herbs, such as basil, chives, or parsley.

Conclusion:

Macaroni garden salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own preferences. With a few simple tips, you can make a macaroni garden salad that is both delicious and healthy.

Related Topics