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Macaroni Ham Salad

Macaroni Ham Salad

A creamy, savory, and colorful macaroni ham salad that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 310 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound 454g elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups about 10 ounces/280g diced ham
  • 1 cup about 4 stalks diced celery
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 1 cup 240ml mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup 60ml sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

  • 3 hard-boiled eggs diced
  • 1/4 cup diced dill pickles
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives

Dietary Options:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
  • Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free mayonnaise and plant-based sour cream

Instructions
 

  • Cook the macaroni: Boil water with salt in a large pot, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, usually 7-9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  • Drain the pasta: Ensure the macaroni is thoroughly dried after rinsing to prevent a soupy salad. Let it sit on a towel-lined baking sheet.
  • Prepare the ingredients: Dice the ham, chop the vegetables (celery, onion, bell pepper), and thaw the peas.
  • Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth. Add chopped dill, parsley, green onions, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooled macaroni, ham, veggies, and peas. Add the dressing and fold gently to coat.
  • Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight). Before serving, stir the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • This salad tastes even better after sitting, so it's a great make-ahead option.
  • Customize by adding hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or olives for extra flavor.
  • For variations, try adding fresh herbs, different veggies, or even switch up the dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 10gFat: 19gFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword creamy pasta salad, macaroni ham salad, potluck salad
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