Cuban Macaroni Salad : Macaroni Salads

mayonnaise

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

cooked ham

🥗Healthier: turkey breast

💰Cheaper: chicken breast

Turkey breast is leaner and lower in calories.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: shell pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while shell pasta is often less expensive.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.

Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Drain the macaroni and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar to create the dressing.

Chop green bell pepper, onion, carrots, and hard-boiled eggs into small pieces.

Add the chopped vegetables, peas, and cooked ham to the bowl with the dressing.

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and mix well to combine all ingredients.

Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.

Drizzle with olive oil and mix again until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens