🥄 The Wellness Blondie’s Homemade Macaroni Salad

Here’s a homemade macaroni salad recipe that’s creamy, tangy, and totally customizable depending on what you’ve got hanging out in your fridge. It’s rooted in simple, whole ingredients, but leaves room for creativity. Let’s get into it.

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Base Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta you have—gluten-free, einkorn, or whole wheat works too)

• 1/2 cup avocado mayo (or Greek yogurt if you want it lighter)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tang + digestion support)

• 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

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🧅 Mix-In Options (Raid Your Fridge!):

Pick a handful of these depending on what you have:

Crunch + Color:

• 1/4 cup diced red onion or green onion

• 1/2 cup chopped celery

• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)

• 1/4 cup grated carrot

• 1/4 cup chopped pickles or pickle relish

• A handful of chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives, basil)

Creamy + Protein Boost:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

• Cubed cheddar, mozzarella, or dairy-free cheese

• Shredded chicken, ham, or bacon bits (or even tuna!)

Fun Add-ins:

• Frozen peas (thawed)

• Chopped olives

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)

• Roasted red peppers

• Canned chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based protein twist

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🥣 Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayo, mustard, vinegar, and sweetener (if using). Season with salt and pepper.

3. Add the cooled pasta and your chosen mix-ins. Toss until everything’s coated.

4. Chill for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to marry. Taste again and adjust seasoning before serving.

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🌿 Real Food Tips:

• Want to lighten it up? Use half mayo, half Greek yogurt or even mashed avocado.

• Use fermented pickles or kraut for a gut-health punch.

• Swap pasta for cooked quinoa, cauliflower florets, or chopped roasted potatoes if you’re avoiding grains.

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Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or meal prep. And remember—don’t stress perfection. Toss in what you’ve got, taste as you go, and let your fridge inspire the flavor!