Kamil Perry
Macaroni cheese salad is a dish that can be served as a side at potlucks, BBQs, picnics, parties, and summer cookouts. It is made by mixing cooked macaroni pasta with vegetables, cheese, and a creamy dressing. The dressing is typically made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, dill, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Some variations include adding meat, such as ham or hot dogs, or eggs for extra protein. The salad is usually chilled before serving to allow the flavours to combine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Side Dish |
| Occasions | Summer Cookouts, BBQs, Parties, Potlucks, Picnics |
| Main Ingredients | Pasta, Cheese, Vegetables |
| Vegetables | Celery, Peas, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, Carrots, Gherkins, Green Onions, Pickles, Relish |
| Additional Ingredients | Ham, Eggs, Meat |
| Dressing | Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Mustard, Apple Cider Vinegar, Dill, Sugar, Salt, Pepper |
| Cheese Types | Cheddar, Colby Jack, Parmesan |
| Calories | 392kcal-512kcal |
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What You'll Learn
Macaroni cheese salad ingredients
Macaroni cheese salad is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions. It is often served as a side dish at picnics, potlucks, BBQs, and summer parties. The salad typically includes cooked macaroni pasta, cheese, and a variety of vegetables, mixed with a creamy dressing.
The type of macaroni pasta used can vary, but elbow macaroni or any short pasta is commonly used. It is usually cooked until al dente, rinsed with cold water, and drained before being added to the salad.
For the cheese component, shredded or cubed cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but other varieties such as Colby Jack or Parmesan can also be used. The cheese is often mixed with the pasta and other ingredients, or sprinkled on top of the salad just before serving.
The vegetables in macaroni cheese salad can include a variety of options such as celery, red or green onions, bell peppers (especially red, yellow, or orange for colour), gherkins, tomatoes, carrots, and pickles. These vegetables are typically chopped or diced into small pieces and mixed with the pasta and cheese.
To bind the ingredients together and create a creamy texture, a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, dill, sugar or sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper is commonly used. Some recipes also include hard-boiled eggs or diced ham for added protein.
Overall, macaroni cheese salad is a flexible and customisable dish that can be tailored to individual preferences. It is a popular choice for gatherings due to its versatility and the ability to prepare it ahead of time.
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Macaroni cheese salad recipes
Macaroni cheese salad is a popular side dish for picnics, potlucks, BBQs, and parties. It is a versatile dish that can be made ahead of time and tailored to your taste preferences. Here are some recipes and tips to help you create a delicious macaroni cheese salad.
Ingredients and Preparation:
Macaroni cheese salad typically includes cooked macaroni pasta, cheese, vegetables, and a creamy dressing. You can use elbow macaroni or any other type of pasta you prefer. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Be sure to rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop it from overcooking and prevent stickiness.
For the cheese, shredded or cubed cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use other varieties like Colby Jack or pepper jack. If you want to add a tangy flavour to your salad, include some shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
As for vegetables, you can chop and add red onions, celery stalks, red bell peppers, carrots, and pickles. You can also include hard-boiled eggs for some extra protein. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding diced ham or cooked shrimp or scallops.
Dressing Options:
The key to a creamy macaroni cheese salad is the dressing. The base of the dressing is usually mayonnaise, and it is recommended to use full-fat mayonnaise for the best texture and creaminess. However, you can substitute some of the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yoghurt for a tangier flavour. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar is also added to the dressing, along with seasonings like dill, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, then pour over the pasta and vegetables, tossing until everything is well coated.
Serving and Storage:
Chill the macaroni cheese salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. It is even better when made a day ahead, as it allows the flavours to blend. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and add-ins to make the macaroni cheese salad your own. You can try using different types of cheese, vegetables, or seasonings to create a unique flavour profile. Enjoy your creamy and delicious macaroni cheese salad!
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Macaroni cheese salad serving suggestions
Macaroni cheese salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, from casual picnics and summer cookouts to potlucks and dinner parties. Here are some suggestions for serving this delicious salad:
Picnic Perfect
Macaroni cheese salad is an excellent choice for a picnic as it can be easily transported and enjoyed outdoors. Pack it in a container and bring along some utensils for a hassle-free meal. It's a filling and tasty option that will satisfy everyone's hunger pangs.
Summer Cookouts and BBQs
This salad is a perfect side dish for summer cookouts and barbecues. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as burgers, hot dogs, or even Crock Pot Pulled Pork. The cool and creamy macaroni salad will balance the smoky flavours of the barbecue, providing a refreshing contrast.
Potlucks and Dinner Parties
Macaroni cheese salad is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and dinner parties. Its versatility allows you to customise it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. You can make it vegetarian-friendly or add proteins like ham or hard-boiled eggs to make it a more substantial offering.
As a Main Course
While macaroni cheese salad is often served as a side, it can also stand alone as a main course. It's a filling option, especially when paired with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread. You can even offer it as a light lunch option for your guests.
Customisation and Add-Ins
The beauty of macaroni cheese salad is its adaptability. You can experiment with various add-ins to create different flavours and textures. Try incorporating diced ham, shredded chicken, or even tuna for a heartier salad. For vegetarians, focus on veggies like peppers, onions, celery, and tomatoes. Spice things up with paprika, or add a tangy twist with pickles or relish.
Macaroni cheese salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion. With its combination of creamy cheese, pasta, and fresh vegetables, it's a delicious option that your guests will surely enjoy.
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Macaroni cheese salad history
Macaroni and cheese, colloquially known as 'mac and cheese' and ''macaroni cheese' in the United Kingdom, is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce, most commonly cheddar sauce. Its origins can be traced back to medieval England, where it was a casserole dish of cheese and pasta. The dish was baked in the oven but could also be prepared in a saucepan on a stove.
A recipe for macaroni and cheese was included in Elizabeth Raffald's 1769 book, 'The Experienced English Housekeeper'. Raffald's recipe is for a Béchamel sauce with cheddar cheese, which is mixed with macaroni, sprinkled with Parmesan, and baked until golden. Another early recipe for the dish can be found in Eliza Acton's 1845 'Modern Cookery in All Its Branches'. Acton's recipe, "Macaroni a la Reine", instructs the cook to "dissolve gently ten ounces of any rich, well-flavoured white cheese in full three-quarters of a pint of good cream" with salt, Cayenne pepper, mace, and butter.
By the mid-1880s, macaroni and cheese recipes had spread as far as Kansas and Missouri, and the factory production of its main ingredients made the dish affordable and accessible. As it lost its upper-class appeal, macaroni and cheese was brought to Canada by British immigrants, where it remains extremely popular today. In the 20th century, packaged mixes of macaroni and cheese became popular, with Kraft Dinner being the most popular brand in Canada.
Macaroni cheese salad is a variation of the traditional macaroni and cheese dish. It is typically made by mixing cooked macaroni with vegetables, cheese, and a creamy dressing, often made with mayonnaise. The salad can be served as a side dish at picnics, BBQs, and parties, or as a main course.
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Macaroni cheese salad variations
Macaroni cheese salad is a versatile dish that can be customised with various ingredients to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some variations to consider:
Classic Macaroni Cheese Salad:
This version typically includes cooked macaroni noodles, vegetables, and a creamy dressing. The vegetables commonly used are celery, red onions, bell peppers, and peas. The dressing is usually made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This classic combination creates a creamy and tasty salad that is perfect for potlucks and parties.
Cheesy Macaroni Salad:
For cheese lovers, this variation amps up the cheesiness. In addition to the traditional cheddar cheese, shredded or cubed cheese can be added, such as Colby Jack or Parmesan. The extra cheese adds a creamy texture and a more intense cheese flavour. This variation is especially popular as a side dish, pairing well with dishes like hot dogs or fried chicken.
Kraft Dinner Macaroni Salad:
In Canada, "Kraft Dinner" refers to macaroni in a powdered cheese sauce from a box. This variation uses Kraft Dinner as the base and transforms it into a salad. It typically includes finely chopped vegetables like red bell peppers, gherkins, and onions. The cheese sauce is made by whisking the cheese powder with mayonnaise and heavy cream, creating a tangy and smoky flavour profile.
Summer BBQ Macaroni Cheese Salad:
This variation is perfect for those who want to add a variety of vegetables to their macaroni cheese salad. In addition to the classic vegetables, sliced cherry tomatoes, carrots, pickles, sweet pickle relish, and hard-boiled eggs can be included. The eggs add protein, making it a more substantial dish. This version is ideal for summer BBQs and potlucks, offering a colourful and nutritious option.
Customisable Add-Ins:
Macaroni cheese salad is highly customisable, and home chefs can get creative with their favourite ingredients. Some unique add-ins to consider are diced ham, shrimp, garlic powder, paprika, and even strawberry jam on the side. Experimenting with different combinations of vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings can lead to endless flavour possibilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Macaroni cheese salad is a dish made with macaroni, cheese, and other ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and a creamy dressing. It is often served as a side dish at gatherings, potlucks, and BBQs.
The ingredients in a macaroni cheese salad can vary, but typically include macaroni pasta, shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) vegetables (such as celery, onion, and bell pepper), and a dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. Some people also add meat, such as diced ham, or other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs or pickles.
To make a macaroni cheese salad, first cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Rinse the pasta with cold water and drain it. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shredded cheese, vegetables, and any other desired ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings). Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Chill the macaroni cheese salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 24 hours before serving.
Kraft Dinner is a popular boxed meal in Canada that consists of macaroni in a powdered cheese sauce. It is often used as a base for making macaroni cheese salad, especially in store-bought or fast-food versions of the dish, as the orange cheese powder gives the salad its distinctive colour.
Macaroni cheese salad is typically served as a side dish, and it can be a great option for summer gatherings, potlucks, BBQs, or picnics. It can be served on its own or alongside other dishes such as pulled pork, steak kabobs, or sandwiches. It is also a versatile dish that can be customised with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
