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Creamy Macaroni Salad with Fresh Veggies – Guy Fieri Inspired Recipe

If you’re craving a cool, creamy, flavor-packed side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight dinner, then this Creamy Macaroni Salad with Fresh Veggies is about to become your new go-to. Inspired by the bold flavors and personality of Guy Fieri, this macaroni salad isn’t your average side dish. It’s a rich combination of tender elbow pasta, crunchy vegetables, creamy mayo, and zesty mustard, all balanced by the sweetness of pickle relish and a pop of apple cider vinegar. One bite of this and you’ll know you’re riding the flavor train straight to Flavortown! This recipe is simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it can be made ahead, making it perfect for parties or weekly meal prep.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
chill time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • This creamy macaroni salad combines pantry staples with fresh vegetables for a crunchy tangy, satisfying result.
Pasta & Grains
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
Fresh Vegetables
  • 1/2 cup celery diced
  • 1/4 cup green onions sliced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Condiments & Dairy
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
Acid & Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Spices & Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Protein
  • 1 hard-boiled egg chopped (optional but traditional)

Equipment

  • To make this macaroni salad as smooth and fuss-free as possible, gather the following kitchen tools:
  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Egg pot (for hard-boiled egg)
  • Optional:
  • Vegetable chopper for easier prep
  • Serving dish with lid for easy transport

Method
 

  1. Here’s how to create the perfect creamy and crunchy macaroni salad:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (about 8–9 minutes).
  3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  4. Let the pasta drain fully and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, combine:
  2. Mayonnaise
  3. Dijon mustard
  4. Sweet pickle relish
  5. Apple cider vinegar
  6. Sugar
  7. Salt
  8. Black pepper
  9. Garlic powder
  10. Onion powder
  11. Whisk until fully blended and smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Chop the Add-Ins
  1. Finely dice the celery, red bell pepper, green onions, and parsley.
  2. Peel and chop the hard-boiled egg (if using).
Step 4: Mix It All Together
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and egg.
  2. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Before serving, give it a quick stir and top with a sprinkle of extra parsley for a fresh touch.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
This macaroni salad is best served cold and keeps well for days!
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before each serving to refresh texture and flavor.
Freezing:
Not recommended — mayonnaise-based salads tend to separate after freezing.
Reheating:
No reheating necessary — serve chilled.
🥄 Variations
Want to switch it up? Try these delicious and creative takes:
Egg-Free: Skip the hard-boiled egg or use a plant-based egg alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Greek Style: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt and use lemon juice instead of vinegar.
Avocado Cream: Replace part of the mayo with mashed avocado for a green twist.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken breast or tuna to make it a full meal.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Shells, rotini, or penne all work great for absorbing dressing and adding texture.
How long should I chill it before serving?
At least 1 hour is ideal, but 2–4 hours is even better for full flavor.
Is it okay to make this the night before?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors settle.
Can I use miracle whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, but it will give a sweeter and tangier taste. Adjust sugar accordingly.
What if I don’t like relish?
Replace it with chopped dill pickles or simply omit it.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, just ensure the mayo you’re using is dairy-free.
How can I make this healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the mayo, or sub in Greek yogurt.
Can kids eat this?
100%! It’s mild, creamy, and perfect for lunchboxes.
Why do I rinse the pasta in cold water?
It stops cooking, cools the pasta quickly, and prevents it from sticking.
Can I add cheese?
Yes! Try shredded cheddar, cubed mozzarella, or even crumbled feta.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Macaroni Salad with Fresh Veggies brings the fun, flair, and flavor of Guy Fieri’s style without any unnecessary complexity. It’s bold, it’s balanced, and it brings together texture, tang, and freshness in every bite. Whether served at a BBQ, on a weeknight dinner table, or packed for a picnic, this side dish is always a hit.
Its simplicity makes it approachable for home cooks, while its taste keeps guests coming back for seconds. Try it once, and you’ll be making it all year long!