Sweet Macaroni Salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. This creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy salad is loaded with fresh vegetables and tender pasta, making it a hit for all ages. It’s quick to prepare and even better when made ahead, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Mix the Vegetables:
Add the diced carrots, red bell pepper, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Stir in the sweet pickle relish for a hint of tangy sweetness.
Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Season and Chill:
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve chilled. Enjoy this Sweet Macaroni Salad as a side dish or a light main course!
Tips for Perfect Sweet Macaroni Salad:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the pasta slightly firm to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
Adjust Sweetness: You can tweak the sugar and condensed milk to suit your preferred sweetness level.
Add Protein: For a more filling salad, mix in diced ham, shredded chicken, or boiled eggs.
Make Ahead: This salad tastes better when made a few hours ahead of time, as the flavors develop and intensify in the fridge.
Conclusion:
Sweet Macaroni Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, combined with tender pasta and crunchy vegetables. It’s a simple yet versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Final Tip: Make this salad ahead of time to let the flavors meld beautifully, and remember to give it a good stir before serving. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any gathering or celebration!