Recipe For Healthy Macaroni Salad

Healthy Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salads are a great meal option for lunch, dinner or a snack. They are usually a mix of cooked macaroni, vegetables and a dressing. They can be made with mayonnaise or yogurt, and there are many variations that can be made to suit different tastes. The best part about macaroni salads is that they can be made to be much healthier than the traditional mayonnaise-based version. This version of macaroni salad is made with a yogurt-based dressing and lots of fresh vegetables for extra nutrition.

Ingredients for Healthy Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad recipe serves 4-6 people. You will need:

* 2 cups macaroni, cooked according to package instructions
* 1 red pepper, diced

* 1 green pepper, diced
* ½ cup cucumber, diced
* ½ cup tomatoes, diced
* ½ cup green onions, diced
* ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1/3 cup plain yogurt
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions for Making Healthy Macaroni Salad

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool down the macaroni.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, diced red and green peppers, cucumber, tomatoes, green onions, and shredded cheese.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni salad and mix until all of the ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Serving Healthy Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad can be served as a side dish to any meal, as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a snack. It can be served cold or at room temperature. It is best served right away, but will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutritional Information for Healthy Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad is a great way to get some extra vegetables into your diet. It is a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. One serving (1 cup) of this salad contains approximately:

* Calories: 160
* Fat: 5 grams
* Cholesterol: 10 mg
* Sodium: 310 mg
* Carbohydrates: 24 grams
* Fiber: 2 grams
* Protein: 6 grams

Conclusion

This healthy macaroni salad is an easy and delicious way to get some extra vegetables into your diet. It is a great option for lunch, dinner, or as a snack. The yogurt-based dressing and the addition of fresh vegetables make this salad a much healthier option than traditional mayonnaise-based macaroni salads. Plus, it is a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. So, next time you're looking for a quick and healthy meal option, give this macaroni salad a try!