Description
Discover the perfect Cajun Macaroni Salad, a creamy, peppery pasta side that shines at picnics and barbecues. This recipe blends al dente elbow macaroni with a smooth mayonnaise base, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and authentic Cajun seasoning. Crunchy celery, bell pepper, and green onions add freshness, while smoked beef provides a savory depth. Ready in minutes, this crowd‑pleasing dish serves six and delivers bold Southern flavor with every bite. perfect for picnics and potlucks today!!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced smoked beef
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add smoked beef, celery, bell pepper, and green onions to the dressing and mix.
- Combine pasta with the dressed mixture, toss gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version
- replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt. Increase Cajun seasoning for extra heat. The salad improves after resting in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Cajun Macaroni Salad, Cajun pasta salad, creamy macaroni side, easy summer salad, Cajun dressing recipe, how to make macaroni salad, quick Cajun side dish, best Cajun salad, party pasta salad, southern macaroni salad, easy Cajun recipe