Macaroni salad is a classic dish that is perfect for any summer gathering or barbecue. It's creamy, tangy, and full of delicious flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser. However, when it comes to southern style macaroni salad, there are a few key ingredients that set it apart from other versions. In this article, we'll share a delicious and easy-to-follow southern style macaroni salad recipe that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds!
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Shrimp, Celery, Sliced Green Onions, Pepper
This delicious twist on traditional macaroni salad combines tender shrimp with al dente macaroni, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish. The creamy dressing is made with a blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard, giving it a tangy and zesty kick. The addition of fresh herbs, such as dill and parsley, adds a burst of freshness to this summer salad. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic, or enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch.
2of 20
Goat Cheese and Asparagus Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Goat Cheese, Lemon, Ground Black Pepper, Asparagus
If you're looking for a unique and gourmet macaroni salad, this recipe is for you. Tender asparagus is grilled and then tossed with al dente macaroni, creamy goat cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette made with lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, making this dish perfect for special occasions or as a fancy side dish at your next dinner party. Don't be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe!
3of 20
Grilled Corn Pesto Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Corn, Scallions, Pine Nuts, Parmesan Cheese
Take your macaroni salad to the next level with this delicious and summery recipe. Grilled corn adds a smoky and sweet flavor to the dish, while homemade pesto made with basil, garlic, and pine nuts gives it a burst of fresh and herbaceous notes. The addition of cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese adds a touch of creaminess and freshness. This macaroni salad is perfect for a backyard barbecue or as a side dish for your next potluck.
This classic Southern macaroni salad is a staple at any picnic or barbecue. Made with al dente macaroni, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sugar, this dish is comfort food at its finest. The addition of celery and onion adds a bit of crunch and texture to the salad, making it a perfect side dish for any summer gathering. Make a big batch because this macaroni salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
5of 20
Southern Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Hard Boiled Eggs, Celery Stalks, Red Bell
This Southern macaroni salad is a little different than the classic version. Instead of a creamy dressing, this recipe calls for a tangy and zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil and red wine vinegar. The addition of bell peppers, black olives, and green onions adds a burst of color and flavor to the dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a light and refreshing lunch option. Either way, this macaroni salad is a winner!
6of 20
Best Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Celery, Onion, Dill Pickle, Mayonnaise
Looking for the best macaroni salad recipe? Look no further! This version is a classic and foolproof recipe that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The simple dressing is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The addition of hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion adds a bit of texture and crunch to the dish. This macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser and will become a go-to recipe in your household.
7of 20
Homestyle Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Red Bell Pepper, Celery, Red Onion
This homestyle macaroni salad is a simple and delicious version that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy dressing is made with a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, giving it a tangy and rich flavor. Chopped pickles and pickle juice add a unique and tangy twist to the dish, while the addition of red bell pepper and celery adds a bit of crunch and freshness. This macaroni salad is a must-try for pickle lovers!
8of 20
Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Mayonnaise, Celery, Green Onions, Mustard
Take a trip down memory lane with this old-fashioned macaroni salad. This recipe is a classic version that has been passed down from generations and is sure to become a family favorite. The creamy dressing is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onion add a bit of texture and flavor to the dish. Serve it at your next family gathering and watch it disappear!
9of 20
Easy & Creamy Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Mayonnaise, Onion, Celery, Bell Peppers
This easy and creamy macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. The addition of diced ham and cheese adds a bit of protein and heartiness to the dish, making it a perfect option for a light lunch or a side dish at a barbecue. This macaroni salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household.
This classic Southern macaroni salad is a staple at any picnic or barbecue. Made with al dente macaroni, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sugar, this dish is comfort food at its finest. The addition of celery and onion adds a bit of crunch and texture to the salad, making it a perfect side dish for any summer gathering. Make a big batch because this macaroni salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
11of 20
Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Apple Cider Vinegar, Carrots, Onion
Transport yourself to the tropical paradise of Hawaii with this authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad. This version is a staple at any local plate lunch spot and is a must-try for anyone who loves Hawaiian cuisine. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. The addition of shredded carrots and pineapple adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flair to the dish. Serve it as a side dish at your next luau or barbecue.
12of 20
All-American Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Miracle Whip, Salt, Pepper, Evaporated Milk
This all-American macaroni salad is a classic version that is perfect for any patriotic holiday or gathering. The creamy dressing is made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sugar, giving it a tangy and sweet flavor. The addition of diced ham, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs adds a bit of protein and heartiness to the dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a light and satisfying lunch option. This macaroni salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
13of 20
Summer Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Vinegar, Mayo, White Sugar, Mustard, Salt
This summer macaroni salad is a light and refreshing option that is perfect for hot summer days. The dressing is a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard, giving it a zesty and tangy kick. The addition of fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese adds a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch option. This macaroni salad is a must-try for any summer gathering.
14of 20
Easy Tuna Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Tuna, Chopped Onion, Dill, Pickle Relish
If you're a fan of tuna salad, you'll love this easy tuna macaroni salad. The dressing is made with a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. The addition of canned tuna, celery, and onion adds a bit of protein and crunch to the dish. Serve it as a light and satisfying lunch option or as a side dish at your next barbecue. This macaroni salad is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic tuna salad.
15of 20
Best Ever Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cider Vinegar, Mayo, Sour Cream, Onion
This best-ever macaroni salad lives up to its name. The dressing is made with a mix of mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sugar, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The addition of diced ham, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs adds a bit of protein and heartiness to the dish. The secret ingredient in this recipe is a splash of pickle juice, which adds a unique and tangy flavor to the salad. This macaroni salad is a must-try for any macaroni salad lover.
16of 20
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Ditalini, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Mustard
If you love deviled eggs, you'll adore this deviled egg macaroni salad. The dressing is a mix of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. The addition of chopped hard-boiled eggs and paprika adds a touch of smokiness and texture to the dish. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or as a light and satisfying lunch option. This macaroni salad is a unique and delicious twist on the classic deviled eggs.
17of 20
Mom's Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Mayonnaise, Chicken Stock, Green Pepper
This mom's macaroni salad is a family recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The addition of hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onion adds a bit of texture and flavor to the dish. Serve it at your next family gathering and watch it disappear!
18of 20
Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Celery, Bell Pepper, Carrots, Diced Red
This macaroni salad is a basic and foolproof recipe that is perfect for any occasion. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The addition of diced ham, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs adds a bit of protein and heartiness to the dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a light and satisfying lunch option. This macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser and will become a go-to recipe in your household.
19of 20
Classic Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Large Carrots, Onion, Green Pepper
This classic macaroni salad is a staple at any picnic or barbecue. Made with al dente macaroni, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sugar, this dish is comfort food at its finest. The addition of celery and onion adds a bit of crunch and texture to the salad, making it a perfect side dish for any summer gathering. Make a big batch because this macaroni salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
20of 20
Retro Tuna Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Hard Boiled Eggs, Green Onions, Celery, Dill
This retro tuna macaroni salad is a blast from the past. The dressing is made with a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. The addition of canned tuna, peas, and hard-boiled eggs adds a bit of protein and heartiness to the dish. Serve it as a light and satisfying lunch option or as a side dish at your next barbecue. This macaroni salad is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic tuna salad.
The Importance of the Right Ingredients
The Noodles
One of the most important components of a good macaroni salad is, of course, the noodles. In southern style macaroni salad, elbow macaroni is the preferred choice. It has the perfect shape and texture to hold onto the creamy dressing and other ingredients. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente, so they don't become too mushy when mixed with the dressing.
The Dressing
The dressing is what ties all the ingredients together in a macaroni salad. For a southern style macaroni salad, a combination of mayonnaise and mustard is used. The tangy flavor of the mustard balances out the creaminess of the mayonnaise, creating a delicious and well-balanced dressing. You can also add a touch of vinegar or pickle juice for an extra zing.
Adding in the Extras
Southern style macaroni salad is all about the extras. These are the ingredients that give this dish its distinct flavor and make it stand out from other versions. Some popular additions include hard-boiled eggs, diced bell peppers, sweet pickles, and onion. You can also add some fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor.
Putting it All Together
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to assemble your southern style macaroni salad. Start by cooking and draining your macaroni noodles, then let them cool completely. In a separate bowl, mix together your dressing and any additional seasonings you like. Then add in your noodles and any extra ingredients, and mix until everything is well coated with the dressing.
In Conclusion
Southern style macaroni salad is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can make this classic dish your own. So next time you're planning a summer gathering, be sure to add this tasty macaroni salad to your menu. Your guests will thank you!