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Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad

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A refreshing and flavorful macaroni salad with a creamy dressing, colorful veggies, and al dente pasta, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni Cook until al dente
Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing Adds additional flavor
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Fresh Vegetables
  • 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
Optional Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami Optional for extra zing

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Italian dressing, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, black olives, and chopped parsley until well mixed.
  5. If using, add the chopped salami and fold it gently into the salad.
  6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and give the salad one last toss. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let those delightful flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed the day after making to allow flavors to deepen.
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