Description
Creamy Gordon Ramsay‑inspired macaroni salad is a rich, flavorful summer side dish with tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a tangy, herby dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, and potlucks with crowd‑pleasing creaminess and fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional add‑ins: peas, diced cucumber, chopped dill
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and toss to coat in the dressing.
- Stir in celery, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and green onions. Fold gently until evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Make it lighter by using extra‑light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of pickle juice or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Mix in peas or diced cucumbers for added crunch and color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled for best texture and flavor on hot days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling / Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy pasta salad, summer side dish, BBQ side, picnic recipe