Creamy Macaroni Salad – Your Go-To BBQ Side Dish
Summer means BBQs, potlucks, and spontaneous backyard hangouts. Whether you’re grilling for yourself or showing up to a last-minute cookout, this Creamy Macaroni Salad is the perfect no-fuss side dish.
I made this recently to pair with grilled chicken legs after a long day outside, and honestly—it couldn’t have been easier. It’s fresh, creamy, and has just the right amount of bite and crunch. Plus, it holds up great in the fridge, so it’s ideal for making ahead.
CUISINE
American
Cooking Process…
The real beauty of this salad is that it uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand: mayo, apple cider vinegar, a touch of cayenne for heat, and a combo of crunchy veggies for texture. I like to finish it with a bit of grated parmesan for a savoury, salty kick.
If you’re in need of something easy to bring to a BBQ potluck, or just want a quick side to balance out a night of grilling—this is it.
CREAMY MACARONI SALAD
INGREDIENTS
Pasta Salad
Dressing
GUIDE / INSTRUCTIONS
- 1Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- 2Place cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- 3Add celery, red onion, grated carrot, and parmesan to the bowl.
- 4In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, dill, and cayenne pepper.
- 5Pour the dressing over the pasta and mix well to coat everything evenly.
- 6Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 77. Chill for 30 minutes if you have time—or serve immediately.
