Name: Macaroni Salad Peas: 1 Amazing Classic Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 1 h 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces elbow macaroni; 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup diced ham; 16 ounces frozen peas; 2 cups mayonnaise; ¾ teaspoon prepared yellow mustard; ½ teaspoon celery salt; 1 teaspoon onion salt; ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt

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Macaroni salad with peas has been a staple at every backyard barbecue and family picnic I can remember. Growing up, my mom’s version was always the first thing to disappear from the potluck table, and I finally convinced her to share her secrets. The combination of tender pasta, sweet peas, salty ham, and sharp cheddar cheese, all coated in a dreamy, tangy dressing, is pure comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that just screams summer and good times. This easy macaroni salad with peas recipe is so simple to whip up, and the aroma alone will have everyone asking, “When’s dinner?” Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad with Peas

This isn’t just any pasta salad; it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion! Here’s why this macaroni salad with peas is about to become your new favorite:

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
The creamy, tangy dressing coats everything beautifully, making it a truly satisfying creamy macaroni salad with peas.
It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, so you can relax when guests arrive.
The combination of sweet peas, savory ham, and sharp cheddar cheese is absolutely delicious.
This picnic macaroni salad travels well and holds up great at outdoor events.
It’s a versatile side dish macaroni salad that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or burgers.
Kids and adults alike adore this classic flavor combination.
You can easily customize it with your favorite additions!

Ingredients for Macaroni Salad with Peas

Gather these simple ingredients for the best macaroni salad with peas. This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

16 ounces elbow macaroni – cooked al dente and chilled
8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded – sharp cheddar adds a nice bite
1 cup diced ham – pre-cooked ham works perfectly
16 ounces frozen peas – thawed and well-drained
2 cups mayonnaise – the base for our creamy dressing
¾ teaspoon prepared yellow mustard – for a little tang
½ teaspoon celery salt – adds a subtle savory note
1 teaspoon onion salt – enhances the overall flavor
¼ teaspoon seasoning salt – a blend of savory spices

Ingredient Breakdown

The magic in this pea macaroni salad comes from the dressing. Creamy mayonnaise provides the base, while yellow mustard adds a zesty kick. Celery salt, onion salt, and seasoning salt bring a savory depth that complements the sweet peas and salty ham. Adding peas isn’t just for color; they offer a burst of freshness and a delightful pop of sweetness that balances the richness of the dressing. For more information on the benefits of peas, check out gardening tips.

Macaroni Salad Peas: 1 Amazing Classic Recipe - Close-up of creamy macaroni salad with peas

How to Make Macaroni Salad with Peas

Whipping up this classic macaroni salad with peas is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This easy macaroni salad with peas recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.

Cooking the Macaroni

Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add 16 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until it’s perfectly al dente. Immediately drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Preparing the Creamy Dressing

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of mayonnaise, ¾ teaspoon of prepared yellow mustard, ½ teaspoon of celery salt, 1 teaspoon of onion salt, and ¼ teaspoon of seasoning salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, luscious dressing ready to coat everything.

Thawing and Draining the Peas

Step 3: Place 16 ounces of frozen peas into a colander. Run them under warm water for about 2 minutes until they are thawed. Drain them really well, and for best results, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture that could make your salad watery.

Combining and Chilling

Step 4: Add the cooled pasta, 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, the thawed and drained peas, and 1 cup of diced ham to the bowl with your creamy dressing. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated. Make sure you don’t overmix, as this can mash the pasta. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.

Step 5: For the best flavor, it’s crucial to chill this macaroni and pea salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Ideally, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This chilling time allows all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully, creating that signature tangy and savory taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad with Peas

Want to elevate your pasta salad game? These tips will ensure your macaroni salad with peas is a standout dish at any event. I’ve learned these tricks from years of making this classic side dish, and they always make a difference!

Always cook your elbow macaroni until it’s just al dente. Overcooked pasta turns mushy when chilled.
Make sure your pasta is completely cool before mixing it with the dressing. This prevents the mayo from breaking and keeps the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
Don’t skip the chilling time! This is crucial for allowing the flavors in your macaroni and pea salad to meld together for the best taste.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. You might need a little more salt or pepper depending on your ingredients.

What’s the secret to perfect Macaroni Salad with Peas?

The biggest secret to a perfect creamy macaroni salad with peas is ensuring all your ingredients are properly cooled and well-drained. Chilling the pasta thoroughly and draining the peas completely prevents a watery salad and allows the flavors to truly meld.

Can I make Macaroni Salad with Peas ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy macaroni salad with peas is actually best made ahead. I usually prepare it the day before a picnic or party. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Macaroni Salad with Peas?

The most common mistake is using warm pasta, which makes the dressing oily. Also, be sure to drain your peas very well; excess water dilutes the flavor. Finally, give it time to chill – a fresh-made salad doesn’t have the same depth of flavor.

Macaroni Salad Peas: 1 Amazing Classic Recipe - Ingredients for macaroni salad with peas

Best Ways to Serve Macaroni Salad with Peas

This versatile macaroni salad with peas is a fantastic addition to any meal, especially during warmer months. It shines as a classic side dish macaroni salad at barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. Imagine it alongside grilled burgers, juicy hot dogs, or tender pulled pork – it’s the perfect cool, creamy counterpoint to smoky, savory flavors. For a lighter meal, try serving a generous scoop with some crusty bread for dipping or alongside a simple grilled chicken breast. This pea macaroni salad also makes a wonderful addition to a buffet spread, complementing items like fried chicken, deviled eggs, and fresh fruit salad. It pairs well with other salads like a mediterranean chickpea salad.

Nutrition Facts for Macaroni Salad with Peas

This classic macaroni salad with peas recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful side dish. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (this recipe yields approximately 12 servings):

Calories: 385 kcal
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. For more information on general nutrition, you can refer to resources like the USDA’s MyPlate guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Macaroni Salad with Peas

Proper storage is key to keeping your macaroni salad with peas fresh and delicious. Once you’ve finished enjoying this delightful picnic macaroni salad, make sure to cool it completely before storing. I usually let it sit on the counter for about an hour, but no longer than two hours, to avoid any food safety issues.

Transfer the cooled salad to airtight containers. This is crucial for preventing it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in your refrigerator. Properly stored, your macaroni and pea salad will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. While I don’t personally recommend freezing this type of mayo-based salad, as the texture can change significantly upon thawing, it’s great for making ahead for a few days.

Reheating isn’t typically necessary for this cold salad! It’s designed to be served chilled. If you do find it a bit too firm after refrigeration, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This is the best way to enjoy the full flavor of your easy macaroni salad with peas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni Salad with Peas

What is the best type of macaroni to use for this pea macaroni salad?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for this recipe, and it works wonderfully in this macaroni salad with peas. Its small, curved shape holds the creamy dressing and small mix-ins like peas and ham perfectly. However, you can also use other small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or ditalini if you prefer. For other pasta dishes, consider trying spaghetti with garlic and oil.

Why add peas to macaroni salad?

Adding peas to your macaroni salad brings a lovely burst of sweetness and a pop of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the creamy dressing. They also add a beautiful vibrant green color, making the dish more visually appealing. It’s a simple addition that truly elevates this easy macaroni salad with peas.

Can I substitute the ham in this macaroni and pea salad?

Absolutely! Ham is a classic addition, but you can easily swap it out. Diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even crumbled bacon work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, you could omit the ham entirely or add extra vegetables like finely diced celery, bell peppers, or even chickpeas for added texture and protein in your vegetarian macaroni salad with peas.

How do I make this macaroni salad with peas healthier?

To make a healthy macaroni salad with peas, you can try using a lighter mayonnaise or a Greek yogurt-based dressing. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, adding more peas, shredded carrots, or finely chopped broccoli. Using whole wheat elbow macaroni can also boost the fiber content of this delightful dish.

Variations of Macaroni Salad with Peas You Can Try

While this classic macaroni salad with peas is amazing as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few ideas to shake things up and make this dish your own:

Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing or mix in some finely diced jalapeños. This gives a wonderful spicy twist to the traditional pea macaroni salad.
Veggie Lover’s Dream: Bulk up this side dish macaroni salad with extra veggies! Consider adding finely diced celery for crunch, chopped bell peppers for color and sweetness, or even some chopped pickles for a tangy bite.
Lighter Option: If you’re looking for a healthier macaroni salad with peas, try substituting half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This cuts down on fat while adding a nice tanginess. You could also use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Smoky Flavor: Swap the diced ham for crumbled bacon or add a touch of smoked paprika to the dressing for a delicious smoky depth that complements the peas beautifully.