Mexican Macaroni Salad

Name: Mexican Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; Juice of 1 lime; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ red onion, finely chopped; ¼ cup cilantro, chopped (or parsley); 1 jalapeño, diced (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 27, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Macaroni Salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights
The combination of creamy dressing and tangy ingredients creates a flavor explosion
Its bright colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Perfect for potlucks or casual dinners, this dish adapts to any occasion

I once brought this Mexican Macaroni Salad to a friend’s barbecue, and let me tell you, it vanished faster than my last slice of cake! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Taco Salad recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for the best texture; it holds onto the creamy dressing beautifully.
Mayonnaise: Opt for full-fat mayonnaise to achieve that rich, creamy consistency everyone loves.
Sour Cream: A dollop adds tanginess; feel free to use Greek yogurt if you’re feeling healthy.
Red Bell Pepper: Dice finely for sweetness and color; fresh bell peppers lend crunchiness to each bite. sweet and savory cornbread poppers.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion keeps things zesty; soak them in water first if you want less bite.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute.
Jalapeños: Spice things up with diced jalapeños; adjust according to your heat preference!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; don’t skip this step!
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those vibrant flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, juice from 1 lime, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy while imagining how delicious it will be!

Add in the Veggies: Fold in your chopped red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeños (if using), and cilantro into the dressing mixture. The colors should look like a party on their own!

Toss with Pasta: Gently add the cooled pasta into your veggie-dressing mix. Stir carefully until every noodle is coated in that heavenly dressing – no one likes dry pasta!

Chill Out!: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to mingle together like old friends catching up.

Serve & Enjoy!: Once chilled, give your salad another gentle stir before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if you’re feeling fancy!

And there you have it! A delightful Mexican Macaroni Salad that’s sure to impress at any gathering while also being simple enough for weeknight dinners. Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This Mexican Macaroni Salad is a fiesta of flavors, perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings
The vibrant colors and zesty taste ensure it’s not just a side dish, but the star of your plate
Be ready for compliments and requests for the recipe!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create this Mexican Macaroni Salad efficiently, cook your pasta first while prepping the veggies and dressing simultaneously. perfectly paired steak queso rice This way, everything comes together perfectly in no time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding black beans for extra protein or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Customize to make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Mexican Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to meld all those delicious tastes
A little lime juice brightens up the dish beautifully
Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving!

I remember making this Mexican Macaroni Salad for my niece’s birthday party. The kids loved it, and I was thrilled when they asked for seconds—little food critics in training!

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this Mexican Macaroni Salad?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly; just follow package cooking instructions.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?

Yes, making it ahead enhances the flavors; just keep it refrigerated until serving.

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