Best 2 Graduation Macaroni Salad Recipes

Indulge in a delightful culinary creation perfect for any graduation celebration – the Graduation Macaroni Salad. This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the classic flavors of macaroni salad with a medley of fresh and colorful ingredients.

From the classic macaroni salad featuring a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing to the tangy Dijon mustard-based dressing, this recipe collection offers a variety of options to suit every taste. The addition of vegetables like celery, onion, and bell peppers adds a refreshing crunch, while the sweet and juicy grapes bring a pop of sweetness.

For those who prefer a creamy and cheesy twist, the Creamy Ranch Macaroni Salad is a must-try. With a creamy ranch dressing made from buttermilk, mayonnaise, and herbs, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, the Lightened-Up Macaroni Salad is an excellent choice. Featuring a dressing made from Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and a hint of honey, this salad offers a lighter and more refreshing option without compromising on flavor.

Get ready to impress your guests with this versatile and delicious Graduation Macaroni Salad. With its vibrant colors, delightful flavors, and easy-to-follow recipes, this dish is sure to be the star of any graduation celebration. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let's create a culinary masterpiece that will make your graduation party unforgettable.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

GRADUATION MACARONI SALAD

Graduation Macaroni Salad image

Put this colorful creamy combination into the mix of dishes at your next get-together-and watch it disappear fast! Radishes, cucumber, green pepper and onion lend fresh garden flavor to the macaroni mixture. Remarks Edie DeSpain of Logan, Utah. "It also makes a nice light meal on a hot summer day." (For best results, unmold the salad just before serving.)

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 12-16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 package (7 ounces) elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
1 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped radishes
2 tablespoons chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
Lettuce leaves and additional radishes

Steps:

In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients; set aside. In a bowl, beat cream cheese; add mayonnaise, relish and mustard. Fold into macaroni mixture. Press into a 6-cup ring mold coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Just before serving, unmold onto a lettuce-lined serving platter. Garnish with radishes.

Nutrition Facts :

CLASSIC MACARONI SALAD

Classic Macaroni Salad image

This is a salad that everyone seems to love. I always get lots of compliments on this recipe and it is just a pleasing taste that seems to suit everyone.

Provided by Graden

Categories Salad Pasta Salad Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 4h30m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup distilled white vinegar
⅔ cup white sugar
2 ½ tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
¼ cup grated carrot
2 tablespoons chopped pimento peppers

Steps:

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni, and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain.
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. Stir in the onion, celery, green pepper, carrot, pimentos and macaroni. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving, but preferably overnight.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 390 calories, Carbohydrate 49.3 g, Cholesterol 8.4 mg, Fat 18.7 g, Fiber 2.8 g, Protein 6.8 g, SaturatedFat 2.8 g, Sodium 528.6 mg, Sugar 15.5 g

Tips:

Use a variety of pasta shapes. This will add visual interest and texture to your salad.
Cook the pasta al dente. This means that it should still have a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and ruin the salad.
Cool the pasta completely before adding it to the salad. This will help prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Use a variety of vegetables. This will add color, flavor, and nutrients to your salad. Some good choices include carrots, celery, cucumber, tomatoes, and onions.
Use a flavorful dressing. A good dressing will help to bring all of the flavors of the salad together. Some good choices include mayonnaise-based dressings, vinaigrette dressings, and oil-based dressings.
Add some protein to the salad. This will make it a more filling and satisfying meal. Some good choices include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Garnish the salad with fresh herbs. This will add a pop of color and flavor to the salad. Some good choices include basil, parsley, and cilantro.

Conclusion:

Macaroni salad is a classic summer dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and graduation parties. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a variety of pasta shapes, vegetables, proteins, and dressings to choose from, there are endless possibilities for creating a delicious and satisfying macaroni salad. So next time you are looking for a simple and delicious side dish, give macaroni salad a try!