Best 5 Deli Mac Salad Recipes

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Indulge in the classic American side dish, deli mac salad, a harmonious blend of tender macaroni, creamy mayonnaise dressing, and a symphony of crisp vegetables. This versatile salad is a staple at picnics, potlucks, and backyard barbecues, adding a refreshing and flavorful touch to any gathering. With several variations to suit every preference, this article offers a culinary journey through the world of deli mac salad recipes. From the traditional mayonnaise-based dressing to tangy vinegar-infused versions and even a vegan alternative, these recipes cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Embark on this culinary adventure and discover the perfect deli mac salad recipe to tantalize your taste buds and become the star of your next social gathering.

Here are our top 5 tried and tested recipes!

DELI MAC SALAD



Deli Mac Salad image

It can be difficult to replicate the flavor and texture of authentic deli mac... but this recipe pulls it off beautifully!

Provided by Helene Mulvihill

Categories     Pasta Sides

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
1 c white vinegar
1 c white sugar
1 c finely chopped bell pepper
1 Tbsp celery seed
2 or 3 big globs of mayo

Steps:

  • 1. Heat vinegar and sugar on stove until sugar is dissolved; cool.
  • 2. Toss vinegar sugar mixture with macaroni. Refrigerate in freezer bags for several hours to allow it to set. *NOTE* After soaking, it's possible for there to be some excess sugar/vinegar mixture, if you find it to be very soupy you can toss it into a colander for a minute to drain some off.
  • 3. Toss macaroni with peppers and celery seed. Add mayo to taste. Yummmo!

CHEF JOHN'S CLASSIC MACARONI SALAD



Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad image

Whether it's sitting next to some smoky ribs or just a humble hot dog, this deli-style macaroni salad will always be a crowd favorite, as long as you pay attention to a few key details.

Provided by Chef John

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Macaroni Salad Recipes

Time 4h33m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons kosher salt, or more to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon white sugar, or more to taste
1 cup finely diced celery
¾ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup grated carrot
½ cup chopped green onions, white and light parts
¼ cup diced jalapeno pepper
¼ cup diced poblano pepper
1 (16 ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon water

Steps:

  • Whisk 1 cup mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl until well blended; whisk in sugar. Stir in celery, red bell pepper, carrot, onions, and jalapeno and poblano peppers. Refrigerate until macaroni is ready to dress.
  • Bring a large pot of well salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain but do not rinse. Allow macaroni to drain in a colander about 5 minutes, shaking out moisture from time to time. Pour macaroni into large bowl; toss to separate and cool to room temperature. Macaroni should be sticky.
  • Pour dressing over macaroni and stir until dressing is evenly distributed. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight to allow dressing to absorb into the macaroni.
  • Stir salad before serving. Mix 1 tablespoon mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon water into salad for fresher look.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 294.5 calories, Carbohydrate 32 g, Cholesterol 7.4 mg, Fat 16.1 g, Fiber 1.9 g, Protein 5.4 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 508.1 mg, Sugar 3.2 g

DEB'S MAC SALAD



Deb's Mac Salad image

I had a craving for macaroni salad, and could not find a recipe that suited me, so I came up with my own! Ranch dressing adds tang!

Provided by DBSIMS1000

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 20m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 cups macaroni
1 small onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, grated
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup Ranch-style salad dressing

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. Rinse with cold water and place in large bowl.
  • Add onion, pepper and carrot to bowl with pasta. Toss with mayonnaise and ranch-style dressing. Adjust mayonnaise and dressing to taste. Serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 399.3 calories, Carbohydrate 46.1 g, Cholesterol 9.3 mg, Fat 20 g, Fiber 3.6 g, Protein 8.5 g, SaturatedFat 3.1 g, Sodium 235.1 mg, Sugar 3.6 g

DELI MACARONI SALAD



Deli Macaroni Salad image

A great summer dish that pleases most everyone. You may substitute low fat products for an even healthier version.

Provided by CCinSC

Categories     Vegetable

Time 30m

Yield 14 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

4 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained (16 oz)
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup cider vinegar
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups chopped celery
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell peppers or 1 1/2 cups green bell peppers
1/2 cup chopped carrot (I cut them like little match sticks)
1/2 cup sliced radish
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1/4 cup chpped fresh parsley

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions, drain.
  • You can rinse pasta with cold water to cool quickly.
  • Meanwhile in large bowl, stir together mayonnaise, yogurt, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper.
  • Stir in cooled pasta and remaining ingredients.
  • Cover and refrigerate until well chilled.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 142.2, Fat 1.2, SaturatedFat 0.5, Cholesterol 2.3, Sodium 215.8, Carbohydrate 27.4, Fiber 1.9, Sugar 4.7, Protein 5

DELI MACARONI SALAD



Deli Macaroni Salad image

I used to have to make this salad when I worked in a german deli, only it was origanally made with potatoes. My kids absolutly love this recipe. It never lasts more than 2 days.

Provided by Lori Mama

Categories     < 60 Mins

Time 40m

Yield 6 cups

Number Of Ingredients 7

3 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled under cold water
1 small onion, grated
2 medium garlic dill pickles, grated
salt and pepper
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise or 1 1/2 cups mayo base salad dressing, to taste
pickle juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

Steps:

  • Place cold cooked macaroni along with grated onion and pickle in a large mixing bowl.
  • Add salt and pepper, mayo and enough pickle juice to moisten.
  • Be carful with the juice, you don't want the dressing too runny.
  • Add dill if you like and toss to coat.
  • Serve.
  • Cooking time included in prep.
  • time.

Tips:

  • Use a combination of pasta shapes. This will give your salad a more interesting texture and visual appeal.
  • Don't overcook the pasta. It should be cooked al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
  • Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking. This will stop the cooking process and help to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Use a variety of vegetables. This will add flavor, color, and nutrients to your salad.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. You can add herbs, spices, and other ingredients to taste.
  • Make the salad ahead of time. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop.

Conclusion:

Deli-style macaroni salad is a classic side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. With a few simple tips, you can make a delicious and flavorful deli-style macaroni salad that will be a hit at your next party or potluck.

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