Zesty Lemon-Herb Macaroni Salad

Name: Zesty Lemon-Herb Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 10 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're on the hunt for a refreshing twist on a classic dish, look no further than this Zesty Lemon-Herb Macaroni Salad. Perfect for picnics or a light lunch, this dish brings together fresh herbs and a tangy lemon kick to invigorate your taste buds.

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Ingredients for Zesty Lemon-Herb Macaroni Salad

The base of this dish is, of course, elbow macaroni. Its shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy dressing. Speaking of dressing, the mayonnaise provides a rich and creamy texture, while the lemon juice and lemon zest add a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness. Dijon mustard gives a subtle tang and depth of flavor. To season, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper bring out the best in the other ingredients. The crunch comes from celery and red bell pepper, while green onions add a mild, oniony bite. Fresh parsley and dill round out the salad with a burst of herbaceousness.

Tips & Tricks

For a bit more crunch, try adding sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.
If you’re not a fan of dill, swap it out for basil or cilantro.
To save time, chop your veggies while the pasta cooks.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side for a summer BBQ. Or, serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light, satisfying meal. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a lemon slice would complement the citrus flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?: Absolutely! This salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?: Dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?: You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.

Zesty Lemon-Herb Macaroni Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. You want it al dente so it has a little bite — no mushy pasta here! Once cooked, drain it and give it a good rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta down, which is essential for a cold salad.

Next, grab a large bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined. This is your creamy, dreamy dressing.

Now, pour the cooled macaroni into the bowl with the dressing. Add in your celery, red bell pepper, and green onions, followed by the parsley and dill. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in the lovely lemony dressing.

Cover your bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. This rest time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the salad even more delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright, fresh flavors with a citrusy zing.
Quick to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients.
Perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prep.
Customizable with your favorite herbs and veggies.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup chopped celery

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/4 cup sliced green onions

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Add the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and chopped dill to the bowl.

4. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

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

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