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Classic Macaroni Salad with Avocado and Dill Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 45 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Classic Macaroni Salad with a Twist combines creamy mashed avocado and fresh dill for a refreshing, flavorful take on the traditional picnic favorite. With crunchy red bell peppers, green onions, and a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing, this salad is easy to prepare, healthy, and perfect for gatherings or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool completely.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, finely chop the red bell pepper, green onions, and fresh dill. Set aside.
  3. Mash Avocado: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth but leave some texture to maintain creaminess in the salad.
  4. Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni, chopped vegetables, and mashed avocado. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated and combined.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for best taste.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Make sure the pasta is completely cooled before mixing to prevent the avocado from browning quickly.
  • Use fresh dill for a more vibrant flavor, but dried dill works well in a pinch.
  • This salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the avocado mash to help prevent browning if not serving immediately.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/classic-macaroni-salad-with-avocado-and-dill-recipe/