Mac Salad Recipe

I think a good pasta salad is essential for summer gatherings, but I get tired of the same old standard versions. This mac salad recipe offers a vibrant, unexpected twist on the classic comfort food with its gorgeous, creamy red-orange color thanks to the roasted red peppers.

We’re elevating the traditional mac salad recipe with a rich, smoky dressing made from roasted red peppers and sweet paprika. The result is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet pasta salad that’s guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. This recipe is straightforward to prepare and only gets better as it chills, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead parties. Forget boring mayo-based salads—this version delivers a pop of color and a depth of flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g)
  The classic shape for mac salad, holding dressing in its folds and providing a perfect base. Ensure you use a good quality pasta that can stand up to chilling without getting mushy.
• Mayonnaise: 1 cup (240ml)
  Serves as the rich, creamy base for the blended dressing. Use a full-fat variety for the best texture and flavor profile for this mac salad.
• Roasted Red Peppers: 4.2 oz (120g) from a jar
  Drained thoroughly before blending to avoid excess moisture in the dressing. Adds a sweet, smoky, and vibrant color element.
• Sweet Smoked Paprika: 2 teaspoons (10ml)
  Provides the signature smoky flavor that elevates this recipe. Use sweet smoked paprika (pimentón dulce) for a balanced profile.
• Garlic Clove: 1, minced
  Adds a foundational savory note to the dressing; use fresh garlic for the best flavor. If substituting, use 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder instead.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
  Provides essential tang and acidity to cut through the richness of the mayo and balance the sweetness of the peppers.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 teaspoon (5ml)
  Enhances the natural sweetness of the red peppers and balances the tang from the vinegar. Adjust amount based on preference.
• Alcohol-Free Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
  Adds a subtle sharp complexity and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Fine Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml)
  Used to enhance all the flavors in the dressing; adjust to taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml)
  Adds a gentle heat to balance the sweetness.
• Celery: 2 stalks, finely diced
  Provides essential crunch and fresh texture contrast to the creamy pasta. Finely dice consistently for even distribution throughout the salad.
• Red Onion: 1/2 small, finely diced
  Adds a sharp, pungent flavor that mellows after chilling. Rinse quickly in cold water before mixing if you find red onion too strong.
• Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and finely diced
  Contributes natural sweetness and a beautiful orange color contrast.
• Fresh Chives: 1 tablespoon (15ml), finely chopped
  Used as a garnish to add a fresh, oniony note at the end.

Optional (plan-ahead): If you’re shopping for the week, I put this into a 4-Week Meal Plan + Grocery Lists so dinner’s already decided before your day gets busy.

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions in well-salted water until al dente. This typically takes 7-9 minutes. Immediately drain thoroughly, then rinse under cold water until completely cool to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Drain very well again and set aside to ensure the pasta is not watery when mixing.
2. Make the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, drained roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Blend for 30-60 seconds until completely smooth and creamy; the color should be a vibrant reddish-orange. If the dressing looks too thick, add a tablespoon of water or pickle juice to thin it slightly.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled and drained macaroni with the finely diced celery, red onion, and carrot. Pour the Smoked Paprika & Roasted Red Pepper Dressing over the macaroni and vegetables. Stir gently but thoroughly with a spatula until every piece of macaroni and vegetable is evenly coated in the rich, glossy dressing.
4. Chill and serve: Taste the mac salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and develop. To serve, spoon the finished mac salad into serving bowls and garnish with extra smoked paprika and fresh chives.

Customizing the Creamy Dressing

This mac salad recipe provides a great start, but sometimes you need a little tweak to fit your family’s preferences. Here are some easy ways to adjust the flavor profile of the dressing.

• Adjusting Sweetness and Tang: If you prefer a less sweet profile, reduce the sugar to 1/2 teaspoon. If you want more tang, increase the apple cider vinegar by 1/2 tablespoon.
• Heat Level: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Texture Variations: For a smoother finish, ensure the red peppers are thoroughly blended. For a chunkier texture, leave a few small pieces of red pepper unblended.

How to Store Mac Salad & Make It Ahead

This is a great make-ahead recipe for family dinners or parties because it tastes better after the flavors meld. Proper storage ensures it remains creamy and delicious.

• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb the dressing over time, so you may want to refresh with a splash of mayo or vinegar before serving. I also like to save a little dressing on the side and stir it in right before serving to refresh the texture after chilling for a day or two.
• Potluck Prep: The best mac salad recipes benefit from chilling, so make this 4–8 hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to fully develop.

What to Serve with Smoked Paprika Macaroni Salad

This smoky mac salad offers a perfect creamy side dish for a variety of family-friendly meals and easy dinner ideas. The rich flavor pairs well with grilled and roasted dishes.

• BBQ Mains: This rich and smoky mac salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, grilled sausages, or smoked beef brisket.
• Burgers and Hot Dogs: The cool creaminess provides a perfect counterpoint to hot grilled burgers and dogs.
• Other Sides: Serve alongside fresh fruit salad, baked beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Common Questions

Why is my mac salad recipe watery after sitting?

This usually happens if the pasta wasn’t thoroughly rinsed and drained, or if the vegetables release moisture. Always rinse the pasta well and drain thoroughly before mixing to ensure the dressing clings properly.

Can I make this mac salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this salad needs at least 2 hours of chilling time to let the flavors meld, making it perfect for preparing a day ahead. It is an ideal meal prep recipe for lunches throughout the week.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Dice the vegetables evenly and fold them in right before chilling to maintain their texture. Avoid dicing too far in advance, especially the red onion, which can get soft.

Can I use roasted peppers from scratch?

Absolutely. Roast your own red peppers, peel, and allow them to cool completely before using. Ensure they are well-drained and blended thoroughly for a creamy dressing.

How can I adjust the sweetness of this mac salad recipe’s dressing?

The sugar and vinegar balance the sweetness in this recipe. Adjust by adding 1/4 teaspoon more sugar or vinegar at a time until you reach your desired taste. This helps control the flavor balance for your preference.

Is mac salad served warm or cold?

This particular mac salad recipe is designed to be served cold. Chilling for at least 2 hours allows the dressing to thicken and the smoky paprika flavor to fully meld into the pasta.

Conclusion

This Smoked Paprika mac salad recipe proves that classic comfort food can be both familiar and excitingly new. The creamy, smoky dressing elevates a standard side dish into something truly special for family dinners or potlucks. Save this easy-to-make recipe on Pinterest so you can easily find it for your next gathering or quick meal prep.

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