This creamy macaroni salad is a fun twist on a classic, packed with bold flavors and crunchy veggies. It’s a great side dish for BBQs or just a simple meal at home!
I love how colorful it looks—all the veggies make it feel fresh. Plus, it comes together quickly, so I can whip it up even on the busiest days. Perfect for pasta lovers like me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds the dressing well. If you want a fun twist, you can use shell pasta or penne instead. Both of these keep the creaminess intact while adding different textures.
Mayonnaise: For creaminess, mayonnaise is key. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great here. It adds creaminess with a bit of tang, and it’s healthier! You can also use vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
Sweet Pickle Relish: This adds sweetness and a bit of crunch. If you don’t have any on hand, finely chopped dill pickles or even a bit of honey can replace it for a similar flavor profile.
Veggies: The red bell pepper, celery, and carrots add crunch and color. Feel free to swap in other veggies like chopped cucumbers or green peas, depending on what you have or your taste preferences.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a lovely flavor. If you’re out, try regular paprika or even a bit of cumin for warmth. Adjust the spices according to what you like best!
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Salad Stays Creamy and Fresh?
Cooking and cooling macaroni properly is crucial for texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. Under-cooking slightly prevents it from becoming mushy.
- After draining, rinse the pasta with cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly, ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
- Mix the dressing and pasta together gently so the macaroni doesn’t break apart. You want it well-coated without being smashed.
- Chill the salad! Refrigerating for at least an hour allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
With these tips, you’ll have a creamy, delicious macaroni salad that everyone will love! Enjoy! 😊
Easy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious macaroni salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for chilling. In total, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in! The chill time helps all those tasty flavors come together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes around 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and then rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This also helps stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it well so you don’t have any excess water in your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
While the macaroni is cooking and cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and yellow mustard until smooth. Then, add the sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s creamy and combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste at this stage!
3. Combine Everything Together:
Next, it’s time to bring the macaroni salad together! Gently add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Then, throw in the finely chopped red bell pepper, celery, carrot, and red onion. Using a large spatula or spoon, stir everything together carefully so that the pasta gets coated evenly with the dressing without breaking apart.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, making each bite delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir and taste it again. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper at this point. Serve the macaroni salad chilled and enjoy as a perfect side dish for your favorite meals or just as a tasty snack!
This macaroni salad features a creamy, slightly smoky dressing packed with crisp veggies and bold flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal inspired by Guy Fieri!
FAQ for Easy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat elbow macaroni adds fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This macaroni salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a blend of silken tofu and lemon juice for a creamy texture. You can also use mustard that’s free from animal products.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor or Crunch?
If you’d like to boost flavor or texture, consider adding chopped pickles, diced jalapeños for heat, or even crumbled bacon. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also add a refreshing twist!
These tips will help customize your macaroni salad to suit your preferences while ensuring it remains delicious!
