FREE PRINTABLE RECIPE
Get the Printable Recipe PDF (Free)
Enter your email and we’ll send you the ingredients + step-by-step instructions as a clean PDF you can save to your phone.
- ✅ Printable PDF (ingredients + steps)
- ✅ Save it to your phone (no long scrolling)
- ✅ Includes cook time + servings
- ✅ Easy to follow
FAQ
Where’s the full recipe?
It’s delivered as a printable PDF so you can save it and cook without scrolling.
I didn’t get the email.
Check Spam/Promotions and search your inbox for your site name. Then click Confirm to receive the PDF.
mac salad recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
A vibrant and creamy macaroni salad featuring a smoky dressing made from roasted red peppers and paprika. This twist on a classic comfort food offers a rich, tangy flavor profile and bright color, perfect for summer potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4.2 oz roasted red peppers, drained
- 2 teaspoons sweet smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook and Chill Macaroni: Cook macaroni according to package directions in well-salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly, then rinse under cold water until fully cooled to stop cooking and remove starch. Drain completely.
- Prepare Smoked Red Pepper Dressing: In a blender, combine mayonnaise, drained roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend for 30–60 seconds until completely smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the finely diced celery, red onion, and carrot. Pour the prepared dressing over the macaroni and vegetables, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve garnished with fresh chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Notes
Ensure the pasta is thoroughly drained after rinsing to avoid a watery salad. For best flavor development, chill for at least 2 hours before serving. If refrigerating overnight, you may need to add a splash of extra mayonnaise or vinegar to refresh the texture before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg