Hearty Macaroni Salad

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A creamy, protein-packed pasta salad with chicken, ham, and shrimp, perfect for picnics and potlucks.
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This Hearty Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing classic that combines tender pasta shells with a trio of proteins: diced chicken, ham, and sweet shrimp. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a hint of dill, binds the ingredients together with a rich, tangy flavor. Crunchy celery, colorful bell peppers, and sharp onions add texture and freshness to every bite. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish for summer barbecues, family reunions, or busy weeknight lunches. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day. Serve it cold for a refreshing meal that satisfies the whole family.

Hearty Macaroni Salad recipe image
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Hearty Macaroni Salad

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 778.0

Description

This Hearty Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing classic that combines tender pasta shells with a trio of proteins: diced chicken, ham, and sweet shrimp. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a hint of dill, binds the ingredients together with a rich, tangy flavor. Crunchy celery, colorful bell peppers, and sharp onions add texture and freshness to every bite. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal make-ahead dish for summer barbecues, family reunions, or busy weeknight lunches. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day. Serve it cold for a refreshing meal that satisfies the whole family.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni shells according to package directions until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cubed chicken, cubed ham, and salad shrimp.
  3. Add sliced celery, diced green pepper, diced sweet red pepper, and diced onion to the bowl.
  4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to combine the solid ingredients.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and minced fresh dill until smooth.
  6. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 778.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21.1g33%
Saturated Fat 5.7g29%
Cholesterol 346.8mg116%
Sodium 2041.2mg86%
Total Carbohydrate 47.1g16%
Dietary Fiber 3.0g12%
Sugars 2.1g
Protein 94.1g189%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: macaroni salad, chicken, ham, shrimp, creamy, dill, pasta salad, potluck, picnic, side dish, main course, mayonnaise, sour cream, chilled, make-ahead, protein-packed, summer, family dinner
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