Description
This Classic Macaroni Salad with a Twist features creamy avocado and fresh dill to brighten up the traditional macaroni salad. It’s a refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual lunches. The combination of creamy avocado, crisp bell peppers, and tangy apple cider vinegar dressing makes this salad both hearty and light.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs: While the pasta cooks, dice the red bell pepper, chop the green onions, and finely chop the fresh dill (if using fresh).
- Mash the avocado: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture.
- Make the dressing: In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, diced vegetables, chopped dill, and mashed avocado. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and enhance.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter and tangier flavor.
- Use dried dill if fresh dill is unavailable; reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Make sure to cool the macaroni completely before mixing to prevent the avocado from browning quickly.
- Add additional veggies like celery or cucumber for extra crunch.
- For a vegan version, replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or additional Greek yogurt alternatives.
