why make this recipe
Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt is a fresh and lighter twist on a classic dish. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise cuts down on calories and adds protein. This salad is easy to make and perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish. Plus, it is packed with colorful vegetables that make it not only tasty but also nutritious!
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Table of Contents
how to make Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces macaroni (use gluten free if desired)
- 2 stalks celery (diced, about 1/2 cup)
- 2 large carrots (diced, about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 bell pepper (diced, about 1/4 cup)
- 1/4 cup sweet onion (chopped)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain nonfat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sweet relish
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon each sea salt and black pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (to garnish)
Directions:
- Cook macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and add the noodles to a large bowl.
- To the cooled macaroni, add the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion.
- In a small mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the dressing well to combine, and pour it over the macaroni and vegetables. Stir well to coat the macaroni and vegetables with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. Stir in the fresh parsley and chill before serving.
how to serve Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt
Serve this macaroni salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. You can also serve it in a bowl with extra parsley on top for a colorful presentation.
how to store Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt
Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad gets a little dry after sitting, you can mix in a bit more Greek yogurt before serving.
tips to make Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt
- Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to stop it from cooking further and to cool it down quickly.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as cherry tomatoes or cucumbers.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.
variation
For added flavor, try incorporating diced cooked chicken or tuna for a protein boost. You can also swap out the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt if you want a vegan option.
Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt is a creamy and refreshing side dish packed with tender pasta and lighter healthy flavor, making it perfect for BBQs, picnics, or family dinners.
For more delicious recipe inspiration, enjoy this American flag-themed fruit pizza or try this deviled egg macaroni salad. You can also discover this 4th of July fruit pizza recipe for a festive dessert pairing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta you like, such as penne or shells.
Is this macaroni salad gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free macaroni, the salad will be gluten-free.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead can help the flavors develop more. Just remember to store it in the fridge.
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PrintCreamy Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt
This Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt is a lighter and healthier version of the classic creamy pasta salad. Made with tender macaroni, crunchy fresh vegetables, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, this refreshing side dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, meal prep, or family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 ounces macaroni
2 celery stalks, diced
2 large carrots, diced
1/2 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup sweet onion, chopped
1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sweet relish
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional cherry tomatoes
Optional cucumbers
Optional cooked chicken
Optional tuna
Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until tender.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
3. Transfer the cooled macaroni to a large mixing bowl.
4. Add diced celery, carrots, bell pepper, and onion to the bowl.
5. In a separate small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
6. Whisk the dressing until smooth and fully combined.
7. Pour the dressing over the macaroni and vegetables.
8. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Stir in the fresh parsley.
11. Cover and refrigerate until chilled before serving.
12. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Rinsing the pasta with cold water helps stop the cooking process and cools the noodles quickly.
Add extra Greek yogurt before serving if the salad becomes dry after refrigeration.
Customize the salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chicken, or tuna for added flavor and protein.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed for a gluten-free version.
Plant-based yogurt can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
