Description
A refreshing and creamy Macaroni Coleslaw Salad that combines tender pasta with crunchy fresh vegetables and a tangy, sweet dressing. Perfect as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering, this salad is easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 package (7 ounces) ring macaroni or ditalini
- 1 package (14 ounces) coleslaw mix
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 1 medium cucumber, finely chopped
- 1 medium green pepper, finely chopped
- 1 can (8 ounces) whole water chestnuts, drained and chopped
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups Miracle Whip
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook and cool the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain the pasta through a colander, then rinse it under cold water until it’s completely cool. Rinsing is key to a perfect chilled pasta salad as it prevents the pasta from sticking together, keeps the vegetables crisp, and helps the dressing coat rather than be absorbed. Shake off excess water before tossing.
- Add the crunchy vegetables: Transfer the cooled macaroni to a large mixing bowl. Add the coleslaw mix, finely chopped onions, celery, cucumber, green pepper, and chopped water chestnuts.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Miracle Whip, sugar, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Toss everything together, then chill: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss until the pasta and coleslaw mix are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to mingle and really brings the salad together.
Notes
- Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water is essential to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
- Chilling the salad for at least one hour enhances flavor blending.
- This salad can be enjoyed immediately but tastes best when chilled.
- For a lighter version, consider using a reduced-fat mayonnaise alternative instead of Miracle Whip.
- Feel free to customize by adding herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
