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Mexican Macaroni Salad

Irresistibly Creamy Mexican Macaroni Salad for Summer BBQs

Sierra Lane
A delightful twist on the classic Mexican Macaroni Salad, perfect for summer BBQs and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables
  • 1 cup deli ham
  • ½ cup pickled jalapeño
  • 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice

Instructions
 

  • Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and rinse the macaroni under cold water to cool it down quickly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled elbow macaroni with mayonnaise, mixed vegetables, chopped deli ham, minced pickled jalapeño, and the optional jalapeño juice. Stir the ingredients gently until everything is evenly coated.
  • After mixing, taste your Mexican Macaroni Salad to ensure the flavors are balanced. If you'd like more spice, consider adding extra minced jalapeño or juice. Once satisfied, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  • Before serving, give the Mexican Macaroni Salad a good stir to re-distribute the ingredients. If thick, add a dash of extra mayonnaise or olive oil. Serve it chilled as a standout side dish for your summer BBQ.

Notes

  • Refrigeration Time: Longer is better; allow the salad to chill for a few hours or even overnight.
  • Balanced Spice: Adjust the jalapeño amount to suit your spice preference.
  • Well-Drained Pasta: Ensure the macaroni is thoroughly drained after rinsing.
  • Fresh Vegetable Choice: Use fresh or thawed frozen vegetables for better flavor.
  • Experiment with Ingredients: Consider adding diced avocado or black beans for more nutrition.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
Keyword Mexican Macaroni Salad
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