Looking for a refreshing and surprisingly delicious side dish or light lunch? Look no further! This macaroni and fruit salad recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional macaroni salad, incorporating the sweetness and vibrancy of fresh fruit. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that are both healthy and incredibly flavorful. This recipe is ideal for potlucks, summer picnics, or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unexpected yet incredibly satisfying homemade cooking creation!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayonnaise for a healthier option)
- ½ cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or honey for a healthier alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, segmented
- ½ cup blueberries
- ½ cup chopped fresh mint (optional, adds a refreshing twist)
Instructions:
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Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely. This step ensures your salad won’t become soggy.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a little more vinegar for tang or sugar for sweetness.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the macaroni.
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Add the Fruit: Gently fold in the grapes, strawberries, mandarin oranges, blueberries, and fresh mint (if using). Again, be gentle to avoid crushing the fruit.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the salad chill and prevents the fruit from becoming overly soft. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Macaroni and Fruit Salad:
- Fruit Selection: Feel free to experiment with other fruits based on your preference and what's in season. Peaches, pineapple, kiwi, and raspberries all work well.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar or honey to your liking. Some fruits are naturally sweeter than others, so you may need to adjust depending on your fruit choices.
- Make Ahead: This salad is best made ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Presentation: For a more visually appealing salad, arrange the fruits in a decorative pattern before serving.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a delightful crunch and extra nutritional value.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Cheese Please: Crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese can add a savory element.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
This macaroni and fruit salad recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, textures, and colors that's sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!