Who says healthy food has to be boring? I’m here to show you it can be the most exciting part of your day. This Creamy Macaroni Cold Pasta Salad is a vibrant celebration of flavor and texture that just happens to be good for you. It’s perfect for when you want something lighter than a classic creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta.
It’s the perfect side dish for any sunny gathering. Imagine a bowl full of colorful veggies and tender pasta, all coated in a luxuriously creamy, tangy dressing. This recipe proves that feeling nourished and satisfied can come from the same delicious bite.
Let’s make a version that’s as fun to eat as it is to share. I promise, this dish will become your new go-to for picnics, barbecues, and easy weeknight meals.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Side Dish / Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
- Servings: 6-8
Why This Dish is Secretly Good for You
This isn’t your average heavy pasta salad. Each ingredient brings its own special boost of nutrition to the party. Together, they create a meal that truly supports your body.
Whole wheat pasta adds filling fiber to keep you energized. The colorful bell peppers are packed with vitamin C. Fresh peas give you plant-based protein and a sweet crunch.
Even the creamy dressing works for you. When made with smart swaps, it adds protein and healthy fats. This dish is a nourishing choice that tastes absolutely indulgent.
My Favorite “Healthy Swap” Ingredients
I love playing with ingredients to make classic dishes even better. A few simple changes can boost nutrition without sacrificing that beloved creamy texture. It’s a different approach than the slow-cooked comfort of a creamy Cajun chicken pasta, but just as satisfying.
I use half mayonnaise and half plain Greek yogurt for the dressing. The yogurt adds a wonderful tang and a big dose of protein. It makes the salad feel lighter, too.
I also choose whole wheat or a legume-based pasta. They have more fiber and protein than regular white pasta. This small swap helps turn a side dish into a more balanced meal.
Creamy Macaroni Cold Pasta Salad Recipe
The Full “Feel-Good” Ingredient List
My Clean & Simple Cooking Method
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Macaroni Cold Pasta Salad Recipe!
Nutrition Information
The Full “Feel-Good” Ingredient List
Gathering fresh, colorful ingredients is the first joyful step. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this bright and satisfying salad.
- 8 oz (about 2 ½ cups) whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
My Clean & Simple Cooking Method
This recipe comes together so easily. The most important step is letting all the flavors mingle in the fridge before you serve it.
- Start by cooking your pasta. Boil it in salted water according to the package directions, but aim for al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly. Let it drain very well.
- While the pasta cooks, make the creamy dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- To the bowl with the dressing, add all your chopped vegetables: the bell peppers, peas, red onion, celery, and parsley.
- Add the cooled, well-drained pasta to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This waiting time is magic for the taste.
- Give the salad a good stir before serving. Taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!
How to Meal Prep This for the Week
This salad is a meal prep superstar. It holds up beautifully in the fridge, making healthy lunches a breeze all week long.
I like to make a big batch on Sunday. Store it in a single airtight container, or divide it into individual portions for grab-and-go ease.
It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two. Just give it a stir before you eat.
Nutrition Notes
This information is for one serving, based on the recipe making eight servings. Remember, it’s an estimate because ingredients can vary.
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Dietary Fiber: ~5g
- Sugars: ~7g
- Fat: ~12g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this pasta salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Use a plain, unsweetened variety made from coconut or almonds. You can also use all mayonnaise, but the dressing will be richer.
What other veggies can I add?
Get creative! This recipe is a fantastic base. Try adding shredded carrots, chopped broccoli, sweet corn, or even halved cherry tomatoes. Use what’s in season and what you love for a personal touch.
How long can it sit out at a picnic or barbecue?
For food safety, try not to let it sit out for more than two hours. If it’s a very hot day, keep it in a bowl nestled in a larger bowl of ice. This helps it stay chilled and safe while everyone enjoys it.
I truly hope this recipe brings a lot of color and joy to your table. It shows how simple, whole ingredients can come together to create something special. If you’re looking for another hearty, family-friendly pasta dish, you must try this classic creamy beef and shells recipe.
This creamy macaroni salad is more than just a side dish. It’s a reminder that taking care of yourself can be delicious and deeply satisfying. Share it with friends, pack it for lunch, and enjoy every nourishing bite.
I would love to hear how your version turns out! Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know what you think.
