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Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad

Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad
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Classic Creamy Italian Macaroni Salad is a delightful side dish that perfectly balances al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and a rich, creamy dressing. This easy-to-make salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or casual get-togethers, providing a refreshing complement to any meal. With its vibrant flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite at summer gatherings or family dinners. Best of all, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time, making it convenient for busy cooks who want to impress their guests with minimal effort.

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 fresh parsley
  • Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped turkey slices

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Italian dressing, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and parsley until well mixed.
  5. If desired, fold in chopped turkey slices and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://happycookingtime.com/classic-creamy-italian-macaroni-salad/