Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Ranch Macaroni Salad recipe is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It's one of those easy recipes that always disappears first, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Forget those boring store-bought versions; this homemade macaroni salad is on a whole other level of deliciousness! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand)
- ½ cup buttermilk ranch dressing
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional, but adds protein!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
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Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy salad.
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Prepare the vegetables: While the macaroni is cooling, finely chop the celery and red onion. If using, chop the hard-boiled egg. Having your veggies prepped will streamline the process.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, celery, red onion, parsley, chopped egg (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling period helps the salad set and allows the flavors to fully develop. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Ranch Macaroni Salad:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Using fresh herbs and a good quality mayonnaise will make a noticeable difference.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy and ruin the texture of your salad. Aim for al dente.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your preference.
- Add some crunch: For extra texture, consider adding some chopped bacon bits, toasted pecans, or sunflower seeds.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch Macaroni Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Ranch Macaroni Salad: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend for extra cheesy goodness.
- Veggie Ranch Macaroni Salad: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers for a more colorful and nutritious salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Ranch Macaroni Salad recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. Perfect for meal prepping or last-minute gatherings, this recipe consistently delivers satisfying results. It’s a guaranteed hit at any occasion, making it one of the best recipes in your arsenal of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. Enjoy!