Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad is a fun twist on a classic dish! With pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics and barbecues. Yum!
This salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and I love adding extra cheese and pickles for a little zing. It’s so easy to whip up—just mix it all together and you’re ready to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for macaroni salad. However, if you want a twist, you could try using shells or rotini instead. They hold dressing well and add a fun shape!
Mayonnaise: For creaminess, mayo is a must, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well. It provides a similar texture and adds a tangy flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice kick, but if you don’t like mustard, some people substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of horseradish for a bolder taste.
Celery and Bell Pepper: These add crunch. If you’re not a fan of celery, you can use chopped cucumber instead. For the bell peppers, any color works, though red is sweeter.
Ham and Sweet Pickle Relish: These are optional but add flavor. If you’re avoiding meat, try chickpeas or diced pickles as substitutes for the ham. Relish could be swapped for finely chopped sweet pickles.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Pasta Salad Texture?
The key to a great macaroni salad is in the pasta cooking and cooling process. Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and not mushy. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
- Let it sit until completely cooled before mixing it with the dressing.
This method ensures every bite is perfectly textured, keeping it pleasant to eat even after chilling in the fridge. Enjoy making your macaroni salad just right!
How to Make Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious macaroni salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. Get everything mixed up and let it rest so all the flavors come together nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the cooled macaroni aside for later.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This is going to be the creamy base of your salad!
3. Mix with the Macaroni:
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and stir it gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy goodness.
4. Fold in the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add some crunch! Fold in the diced celery, diced red bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, and green onions. If you’re using ham, add that too! Stir gently until everything is well combined.
5. Add Some Sweetness (Optional):
If you like a touch of sweetness, now is the best time to mix in the sweet pickle relish. It’s completely optional, so feel free to leave it out if you prefer a different flavor.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time is important as it helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it cold and enjoy this delightful macaroni salad with your friends and family!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Elbow Macaroni?
Absolutely! Whole wheat elbow macaroni is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish. Just ensure you cook it according to the package instructions, as whole wheat pasta might require a slightly longer cooking time.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this macaroni salad vegetarian, simply omit the diced cooked ham. You could also add more vegetables, like diced cucumbers or peas, to enhance the flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Macaroni Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for prepping in advance. You can make it up to 24 hours ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Macaroni Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice it becoming too dry, you can stir in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar to refresh it before serving again.
