10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Macaroni Salad

ByJennifer Lucks

Macaroni Salad: The Perfect Side Dish

Macaroni salad is a classic American side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to fit any taste. Whether you are looking for a simple and straightforward macaroni salad or a more complex and flavorful one, there is a recipe out there for you.

In this article, we will discuss the different ingredients that go into making macaroni salad, as well as some tips for making the perfect dish. We will also provide you with some ideas for serving macaroni salad with your favorite main dishes. So whether you are a macaroni salad novice or a seasoned pro, read on for all the information you need to know about this delicious side dish!

Ingredient Description Pairing
Macaroni A type of pasta made from wheat flour, water, and eggs. Potato salad, coleslaw, grilled chicken, ham, bacon, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives.
Mayonnaise A thick, creamy sauce made from eggs, oil, and vinegar. Celery, carrots, pickles, mustard, relish, and herbs.
Celery A crunchy, green vegetable with a slightly bitter taste. Apples, walnuts, raisins, grapes, and almonds.
Cucumber A long, green vegetable with a refreshing, watery taste. Dill, sour cream, vinegar, and salt.
Onion A pungent, aromatic vegetable with a strong flavor. Garlic, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs.
Tomato A juicy, red fruit with a sweet, tangy flavor. Basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley.

Macaroni salad is a popular side dish that is often served at picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. It is made with macaroni noodles, salad dressing, vegetables, protein, and cheese. There are many different variations on macaroni salad, but the basic ingredients are always the same.

Main Ingredients of Macaroni Salad

The main ingredients of macaroni salad are:

  • Macaroni
  • Salad dressing
  • Vegetables (such as celery, onion, and carrots)
  • Protein (such as ham, chicken, or tuna)
  • Cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan)
  • Other optional ingredients (such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit)

Macaroni

The type of macaroni used in macaroni salad is typically elbow macaroni. However, you can also use other types of macaroni, such as penne, rotini, or shells.

Salad Dressing

The type of salad dressing used in macaroni salad can vary depending on your personal preference. Some popular options include mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Italian dressing, or vinaigrette.

Vegetables

The vegetables in macaroni salad typically include celery, onion, and carrots. However, you can also add other vegetables, such as green beans, peas, or tomatoes.

Protein

The protein in macaroni salad can vary depending on your dietary preferences. Some popular options include ham, chicken, tuna, or tofu.

Cheese

The cheese in macaroni salad is typically cheddar or Parmesan. However, you can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese.

Other Optional Ingredients

In addition to the main ingredients, you can also add other optional ingredients to your macaroni salad. Some popular options include nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

Variations on Macaroni Salad

There are many different variations on macaroni salad. Some popular variations include:

  • Italian Macaroni Salad This variation is made with Italian dressing, red onion, tomatoes, and basil.
  • Taco Macaroni Salad This variation is made with taco seasoning, ground beef, corn, and salsa.
  • Chicken Caesar Macaroni Salad This variation is made with Caesar dressing, grilled chicken, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Vegan Macaroni Salad This variation is made with vegan mayonnaise, tofu, and vegetables.

Macaroni salad is a versatile and delicious side dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. There are many different variations on macaroni salad, so you can find one that everyone will enjoy.

3. Pairings with Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of main dishes, side dishes, snacks, and desserts. Here are some ideas for what to serve with macaroni salad:

  • Main dishes
  • Grilled chicken
  • Pulled pork
  • Burgers
  • Hot dogs
  • Steak
  • Fish
  • Pizza
  • Pasta
  • Side dishes
  • Potato salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Green beans
  • Carrots
  • Cucumbers
  • Tomatoes
  • Salad
  • Bread
  • Snacks
  • Chips
  • Crackers
  • Pretzels
  • Nuts
  • Fruit
  • Vegetables
  • Dips
  • Desserts
  • Fruit salad
  • Ice cream
  • Cake
  • Cookies
  • Pie
  • Brownies
  • Candy

Here are some specific examples of how you could pair macaroni salad with other dishes:

  • Macaroni salad with grilled chicken is a classic combination that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The grilled chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the macaroni salad is cool and refreshing.
  • Macaroni salad with pulled pork is another great option for a summer cookout. The pulled pork is smoky and tender, and the macaroni salad is the perfect way to cool down after a hot day.
  • Macaroni salad with burgers is a great way to add some variety to your burger night. The macaroni salad is a lighter and healthier option than fries, and it pairs perfectly with the juicy burger.
  • Macaroni salad with hot dogs is a simple and delicious meal that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The macaroni salad is a great way to add some flavor and nutrition to your hot dogs.
  • Macaroni salad with steak is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion. The steak is grilled to perfection, and the macaroni salad is the perfect side dish to complement the rich flavor of the steak.
  • Macaroni salad with fish is a light and healthy meal that is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. The fish is grilled or poached to perfection, and the macaroni salad is the perfect way to add some flavor and nutrition to your meal.
  • Macaroni salad with pizza is a fun and creative way to enjoy your favorite pizza. The macaroni salad is the perfect way to add some color and flavor to your pizza, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover macaroni salad.
  • Macaroni salad with pasta is a great way to add some variety to your pasta dish. The macaroni salad is the perfect way to add some color, flavor, and texture to your pasta, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover macaroni salad.

No matter what you pair it with, macaroni salad is sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and versatile side dish, be sure to give macaroni salad a try!

4. Tips for Making Macaroni Salad

Making macaroni salad is easy, but there are a few tips that can help you make the best possible dish. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Be sure to rinse the macaroni under cold water after cooking to remove any excess starch.
  • Chill the macaroni salad before serving. This will help the flavors to blend and the salad to become more refreshing.
  • Add the dressing just before serving. This will help to prevent the macaroni salad from becoming soggy.
  • Serve with your favorite toppings. Some popular toppings for macaroni salad include chopped vegetables, nuts, croutons, and cheese.

Here are some additional tips for making macaroni salad:

  • Use a good quality mayonnaise. The mayonnaise is the main flavor in macaroni salad, so it’s important to use a good quality one.
  • Don’t overdress the salad. A little bit of dressing goes a long way, so be sure not to add too much.
  • Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Macaroni salad is a very versatile dish, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
  • Make ahead of time. Macaroni salad is best when it’s made ahead of time and chilled. This will give the flavors time to blend and the salad to become more refreshing.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make the best macaroni salad ever!

Macaroni salad is a versatile and delicious dish that can

What Goes Good With Macaroni Salad?

  • What are some classic side dishes to serve with macaroni salad?
  • Potato salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Baked beans
  • Corn on the cob
  • Deviled eggs
  • What are some other good options for main dishes to serve with macaroni salad?
  • Hot dogs
  • Hamburgers
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Pulled pork
  • Pizza
  • What are some good toppings for macaroni salad?
  • Chopped vegetables (such as celery, carrots, and tomatoes)
  • Chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or chives)
  • Diced hard-boiled eggs
  • Croutons
  • Cheese (such as shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or feta)
  • What are some tips for making a great macaroni salad?
  • Use a good quality mayonnaise.
  • Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente.
  • Don’t overdress the salad.
  • Chill the salad before serving.
  • What are some common mistakes people make when making macaroni salad?
  • Using too much mayonnaise.
  • Overdressing the salad.
  • Not chilling the salad before serving.
  • Using old or stale ingredients.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • [The Spruce Eats: How to Make the Best Macaroni Salad](https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-macaroni-salad-recipe-4068450)
  • [Allrecipes: 25 Best Macaroni Salad Recipes](https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/macaroni-salad/)
  • [Cooking Light: 10 Healthy Macaroni Salad Recipes](https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/healthy/macaroni-salad-recipes)

    Macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. It is typically made with elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and carrots. However, there are many different variations of macaroni salad, and you can add your own personal touches to make it your own.

When choosing what to serve with macaroni salad, you want to complement the flavors of the dish. Some good options include:

  • Grilled or fried chicken
  • Hot dogs or sausages
  • Barbecue ribs
  • Pulled pork
  • Fried fish
  • Ham
  • Steak
  • Hamburgers
  • Hot dogs
  • Vegetarian burgers
  • Veggie dogs

You can also serve macaroni salad with a variety of side dishes, such as:

  • Potato salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Green bean salad
  • Fruit salad
  • Bread rolls
  • Crackers
  • Chips
  • Pretzels
  • Pita bread
  • Cornbread
  • Dinner rolls

Macaroni salad is a great dish to serve at any occasion. It is easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy side dish, give macaroni salad a try!

Author Profile

Jennifer Lucks
Jennifer Lucks
With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.

Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.

In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.

Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.