Description
Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad is a delightful dish that brings a burst of freshness and flavor to any gathering. This salad combines al dente elbow macaroni with a creamy dressing, vibrant veggies, and optional turkey for added protein. Perfect as a side for barbecues or picnics, its zesty Italian flair makes it a crowd-pleaser. Best served chilled, this macaroni salad allows flavors to meld beautifully over time, creating a refreshing experience that complements various meals. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
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 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 parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped turkey slices (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Italian dressing, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooled macaroni to the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and parsley until well mixed.
- If using turkey, fold it gently into the salad.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and give it one final mix.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg