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Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad

Creamy Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad for Summer Fun

This Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad is a perfect, creamy delight for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Ziti Pasta Use any pasta shape as a substitution if desired.
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Mexican Crema can be used for a slightly sweeter taste.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Can substitute with green bell pepper.
  • 1 small Red Onion May substitute with green onions.
  • 1 medium Carrot Freshly grated for best texture.
  • 1 cup Celery Ensure small dicing for uniform bites.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Dice very small for even distribution.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt
  • 1 tsp Celery Seed Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tbsp White Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Diced Pimientos Optional but recommended.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Grater

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Ziti Pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then rinse under cold water and drain well.
  2. Finely dice the red onion, red bell pepper, and celery; combine in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with celery salt and celery seed.
  3. Grate the carrot, chop further into small pieces, and add to the vegetable mixture.
  4. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, celery seed, and salt in a medium bowl until smooth.
  5. If using fresh parsley, mince and add to the vegetable mixture; let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked pasta and creamy dressing with the vegetable mixture, gently tossing to coat.
  7. Fold in the diced cheddar cheese gently to ensure even distribution.
  8. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours or ideally overnight.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad marinate overnight. Taste and adjust seasoning of salt and sugar as needed.

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