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I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
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Growing up, macaroni salad was a staple at every family gathering. But honestly, it was usually kinda bland. Then, Aunt Millie brought her version to the annual Fourth of July picnic. Let me tell you, minds. were. blown. The secret? Ham and pineapple! It sounds a little wacky, I know, but trust me on this. The sweet and savory combo is simply divine, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. Picture this: tender macaroni, smoky ham, juicy pineapple chunks, all coated in a luscious, creamy dressing. Seriously, what's not to love?
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add some chopped celery or bell peppers for extra crunch. Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or bacon. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. The possibilities are endless. And if you need to feed a crowd, simply double or triple the recipe. It's always a hit!
Required Equipments
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Macaroni Salad with Ham and Pineapple: Frequently Asked Questions
Macaroni Salad with Ham and Pineapple
This Macaroni Salad with Ham and Pineapple is a delightful twist on the classic. It’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple summer lunch. Prep ahead and chill for an easy meal!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the macaroni from becoming mushy. Transfer the cooked macaroni to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the ham and pineapple: While the macaroni is cooking, dice the ham into small cubes. Drain the pineapple chunks well, patting them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Add the ham and pineapple to the bowl with the macaroni.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more sugar. For a tangier dressing, add a splash more vinegar.
- Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the macaroni, ham, and pineapple. Gently stir to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the macaroni salad mushy.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor and texture. The salad will also thicken as it chills.
- Serve: Before serving, give the macaroni salad a gentle stir. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or paprika, if desired. Serve cold and enjoy!
- Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients to customize your macaroni salad. Some popular additions include chopped celery, bell peppers, red onion, or hard-boiled eggs.
📝 Notes
- For a lighter version, use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add some chopped celery or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 50 mg
