I was asked to create a healthy macaroni salad, but to keep it classic. Basically, no overly frilly, fussy, or fancy ingredients allowed. That actually is more challenging than it sounds. Macaroni salad is considered “classic” for a reason. And try to always steer clear of ultra-processed or “fake” ingredients to concoct my recipes. That said, I was successful at creating this better-for-you version!

I kept great taste and tradition in mind. And though not extra fancy, I did make this macaroni salad extra special by adding grilled peppers and fresh herbs. Enjoy this classic vegan macaroni salad with grilled pepeprs at your next cookout or picnic. I know I will!

classic vegan macaroni salad with grilled peppers

Makes 5 servings: 1 cup each

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (ideally whole grain or multigrain!)
• 1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 2 1/2 ounces plain unsweetened vegan Greek-style yogurt (1/4 rounded cup=2 1/2 ounces)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unfiltered apple cider vinegar, or to taste
• 1 1/2 tablespoons grained Dijon mustard
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 medium stalks celery, thinly sliced on the diagonal (1 cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 4 or 5 large pieces, grilled or pan-grilled, finely diced
• 1 small jalapeño, grilled, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced crosswise, use part or all seeds
• 1/2 cup mixture of finely chopped fresh herbs, such as chives and flat-leaf parsley
• 1/3 cup finely diced Vidalia or other sweet onion

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain, toss with ice cubes in the pan until the macaroni is cool, then drain well. Chill.
2. Meanwhile, stir together the mayonnaise, vegan yogurt, vinegar, mustard, and salt until well combined. Add the chilled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, jalapeño, herbs, and onion and stir until just combined. Serve cool.

Per serving: 300 calories, 13g total fat, 3g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 15mg cholesterol, 570mg sodium, 41g total carbohydrate, 5g dietary fiber, 2g sugars, 7g protein*

Jackie’s Culinary Tips!

• Consider grilling vegetable additions, such as peppers, to create more flavor depth and provide unique smoky flair
• Rely on sweetness naturally, such as by using sweet onion and sweet red bell pepper, instead of adding processed white sugar
• For bonus zip, add jalapeno–the recipe doesn’t need to be “hot,” just use enough to add extra oomph
• For aromatic freshness, use fresh herbs liberally