Creamy Macaroni Salad with Peas: A Classic Recipe Perfected

Macaroni salad is a quintessential side dish, gracing picnic tables, potlucks, and barbecues across the land. It’s a comforting, familiar flavor that evokes memories of summer gatherings and shared meals. While there are countless variations of this beloved salad, the addition of sweet green peas elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. This recipe for creamy macaroni salad with peas is a testament to the simple joys of home cooking, offering a perfectly balanced blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

This isn’t just another macaroni salad recipe; it’s a carefully crafted formula for achieving the ultimate creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish. We’ll delve into the importance of each ingredient, explore techniques for achieving the perfect pasta texture, and share tips for ensuring your salad stays fresh and delicious, even when made ahead of time. Get ready to rediscover the magic of macaroni salad!

## Why This Macaroni Salad Recipe Works

Several key elements contribute to the success of this macaroni salad:

* **Perfect Pasta Texture:** Avoiding mushy pasta is crucial. We’ll discuss the ideal cooking time and the importance of rinsing the pasta thoroughly after cooking to stop the cooking process.
* **Creamy, Flavorful Dressing:** The dressing is the heart of the salad. This recipe uses a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mustard, and a touch of sweetness for a balanced and tangy flavor profile. The sour cream (or Greek yogurt) adds a delightful tang and richness that complements the mayonnaise without being overly heavy. The yellow mustard provides a classic tang, while the apple cider vinegar brightens the entire dressing and adds depth.
* **Balancing Sweetness and Tang:** A touch of sugar or honey is often added to macaroni salad to balance the tang of the mustard and vinegar. This recipe uses a small amount, just enough to enhance the other flavors without making the salad overly sweet.
* **Fresh, Crunchy Vegetables:** Celery and red onion provide a delightful crunch and contrasting flavors. The peas add a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
* **Make-Ahead Friendliness:** Macaroni salad is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator, making it perfect for potlucks and parties.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 pound elbow macaroni:** Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can also be used.
* **1 cup mayonnaise:** Use a good-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
* **1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt:** Sour cream adds richness and tang; Greek yogurt provides a healthier alternative with a similar flavor profile.
* **2 tablespoons yellow mustard:** Yellow mustard provides a classic tangy flavor. Dijon mustard can be substituted for a slightly more complex flavor.
* **2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar:** Apple cider vinegar adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream.
* **1 tablespoon sugar or honey:** A touch of sweetness balances the tangy flavors. Adjust to your taste.
* **1 teaspoon salt:** Adjust to taste.
* **1/2 teaspoon black pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
* **1 cup frozen peas:** Thawed. Fresh peas can also be used, but frozen peas are more convenient and readily available.
* **1/2 cup finely chopped celery:** Celery adds a refreshing crunch.
* **1/4 cup finely chopped red onion:** Red onion adds a sharp, pungent flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
* **Optional additions:** Hard-boiled eggs (chopped), diced ham or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sweet pickle relish.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

**Step 1: Cook the Macaroni**

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water seasons the pasta as it cooks.
2. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, but slightly undercook it. You want the pasta to be *al dente*, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the salad.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander. Immediately rinse the pasta under cold running water until it is completely cool. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together. Make sure to drain all the water well.
4. Transfer the cooked and cooled macaroni to a large mixing bowl.

**Step 2: Prepare the Dressing**

1. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a little more sugar or vinegar depending on your preference.

**Step 3: Assemble the Salad**

1. Add the thawed peas, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the cooked macaroni.
2. Pour the dressing over the macaroni and vegetables. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pasta mushy.
3. If using any optional additions, such as hard-boiled eggs, ham, or cheese, add them now and gently stir to combine.

**Step 4: Chill and Serve**

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably several hours, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer the salad sits, the better it will taste.
2. Before serving, give the salad a good stir. The pasta may have absorbed some of the dressing, so you may need to add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream to reach your desired consistency.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

## Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad

* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** This is the most important tip for avoiding mushy macaroni salad. Cook the pasta *al dente* and rinse it thoroughly with cold water.
* **Use good-quality ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the salad. Use a good-quality mayonnaise and fresh vegetables.
* **Taste and adjust seasonings:** Taste the dressing and the salad as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors.
* **Make it ahead of time:** Macaroni salad is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator.
* **Add a personal touch:** Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include hard-boiled eggs, diced ham or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sweet pickle relish.
* **Control the sweetness:** Start with the recommended amount of sugar (or honey) and adjust to your taste. Some people prefer a sweeter salad, while others prefer a more tangy salad.
* **Keep it cold:** Macaroni salad should be kept cold to prevent spoilage. If you’re serving it outdoors, place the bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice.
* **Consider a Zesty Variation:** Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the dressing for a brighter, zesty flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle kick.
* **Ensure Proper Moisture:** If the salad seems dry after chilling, add a tablespoon or two of milk or mayonnaise to rehydrate it.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Vegetarian:** This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, substitute vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based sour cream alternative.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free macaroni pasta.
* **Lower-Fat:** Use light mayonnaise and fat-free Greek yogurt.
* **Different Vegetables:** Experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots.
* **Different Herbs:** Add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives for added flavor.
* **Spicy Macaroni Salad:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
* **Hawaiian Macaroni Salad:** Add a tablespoon of sweet pickle relish and a can of drained crushed pineapple to the salad.
* **Tuna Macaroni Salad:** Add a can of drained tuna to the salad for a protein-packed meal.

## Serving Suggestions

Macaroni salad with peas is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Barbecues:** Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or chicken.
* **Picnics:** Pack it in a cooler for a refreshing and satisfying picnic lunch.
* **Potlucks:** Bring it to your next potluck gathering. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Sandwiches:** Serve it as a side dish with sandwiches or wraps.
* **As a light meal:** Macaroni salad is substantial enough to be eaten on its own as a light lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a protein like grilled chicken or fish.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

Macaroni salad is an ideal make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors meld together and improve as it sits in the refrigerator. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:

1. Prepare the macaroni salad as directed.
2. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days.
4. Before serving, give the salad a good stir. If it seems dry, add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream to reach your desired consistency.

## Storage Instructions

* Store leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
* It is not recommended to freeze macaroni salad, as the mayonnaise and vegetables may become watery and mushy upon thawing.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 350-450
* Fat: 20-30g
* Saturated Fat: 5-8g
* Cholesterol: 30-50mg
* Sodium: 400-600mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 2-4g
* Sugar: 5-10g
* Protein: 5-7g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Equipment

* Large pot
* Colander
* Large mixing bowl
* Medium mixing bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Macaroni Salad with Peas Recipe Card

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 10 minutes
**Chill time:** 30 minutes (minimum)

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
* 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
* 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
* Optional additions: Hard-boiled eggs (chopped), diced ham or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sweet pickle relish.

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until *al dente*. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mustard, vinegar, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, peas, celery, and red onion.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Add any optional ingredients and stir gently.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Stir before serving. Add more mayonnaise or sour cream if needed to reach desired consistency.

Enjoy this classic macaroni salad with peas! It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion.

## Conclusion

Macaroni salad with peas is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh flavors and comforting textures. This recipe provides a solid foundation for creating your own personalized version of this classic salad. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a macaroni salad that perfectly suits your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or bringing it to a potluck, this macaroni salad is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and satisfying experience!