macaroni sweet salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best macaroni sweet salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic macaroni sweet salad recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

This salad is a staple in our household, especially during the summer months when fresh vegetables are abundant. It’s a perfect side dish for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.

The combination of macaroni, sweet relish, and crunchy vegetables is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I love that this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the vegetables and whole grain pasta. My kids adore helping me assemble the ingredients and mixing everything together – it’s a fun and interactive experience for them!

When I serve this salad at gatherings, I always get rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It’s become a tradition in our family to make this salad for special occasions, and I’m thrilled to share it with all of you now.

Macaroni Sweet Salad

4.6 from 885 votes

A sweet and creamy macaroni salad made with tender pasta, pineapple, and a lightly sweetened dressing. This dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple side dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
4In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth and creamy.
5Set the dressing aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
6In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, drained crushed pineapple, shredded carrots, chopped pecans, and sweetened shredded coconut.
7Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and stir gently with a rubber spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
8Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
9Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Rubber spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor.

Watch Video Of How Macaroni Sweet Salad Works

This macaroni sweet salad recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too! It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings – just remember to bring enough for everyone because it’ll likely be devoured quickly!

When storing leftovers, make sure to refrigerate them within two hours of preparation and consume within 5 days. Reheat gently by microwaving or tossing with hot pasta water before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni Sweet Salad

Q: What type of pasta is best for this macaroni sweet salad recipe?

A: You can use any type of short pasta such as elbow macaroni, ditalini, or shells. However, I prefer elbow macaroni as it holds onto the dressing nicely.

Q: Can I use store-bought sweet relish instead of making my own?

A: Yes, you can definitely use store-bought sweet relish if you prefer a milder flavor. However, making your own sweet relish from scratch is relatively easy and adds an extra layer of flavor to the salad.

Q: How long does the salad keep in the refrigerator?

A: This salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving.

Q: Can I add protein to this salad?

A: Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, turkey bacon, or even tofu to make this salad more substantial. Just be sure to adjust the amount of dressing accordingly.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and mix everything together up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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