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Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad

A creamy and tangy macaroni salad made with cheddar cheese and fresh vegetables, perfect for picnics or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base

  • 1 lb box of Ziti Pasta Serves as the base and holds the dressing well.

Creamy Dressing

  • 1.5 cups Mayonnaise Provides rich, creamy texture.
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream Can swap for Mexican Crema for a smoother finish.
  • 2 teaspoons White Sugar Balances the flavors.

Vegetables

  • 1 large Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and crunch.
  • 1 medium-sized Red Onion Finely diced for tanginess.
  • 1 large Carrot Grated for texture and sweetness.
  • 2 stems Celery Adds crunch.
  • 1 bunch fresh Parsley Optional but adds brightness.
  • 2 teaspoons Celery Salt Savory note that complements the dish.
  • 2 teaspoons Celery Seed Enhances celery flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons diced Pimientos with the liquid Adds color and sweetness.

Cheese

  • 1 lb block of your favorite Cheddar Cheese Choose sharp cheddar for flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse well with cold water.
  • Prepare the vegetables by finely dicing the red onion, red bell pepper, and celery.
  • In a large bowl, toss the diced vegetables with celery salt and celery seed.
  • Add the pimientos and grated carrot to the vegetable mix.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and sugar until smooth.
  • Combine the dressing with the vegetable mixture and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  • Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable and dressing mixture, tossing gently to coat.
  • Dice the cheddar cheese and fold it into the salad.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Notes

For a tangier salad, consider adding lemon juice or pickle juice to the dressing. Always rinse pasta to avoid overcooking, and feel free to add other ingredients as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Cheddar Salad, Creamy Salad, Macaroni Salad, Potluck Recipe, Summer Salad
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