Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad Recipe - Vegetarian Salad from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for any meal. This recipe combines the creamy texture of macaroni with the crunch of celery, the sweetness of peas, and the savory flavor of ham and cheese. The addition of ranch dressing and sweet pickle relish gives this salad a tangy and zesty kick that will have your taste buds dancing.

History

This recipe for Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad has been a family favorite for generations. Originally created by Cliff, a passionate cook and food enthusiast, this salad has been passed down through the years and is now enjoyed by many. The combination of ingredients in this salad reflects Cliff's love for simple yet flavorful dishes that bring people together.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked macaroni
1 cup of frozen peas
0.75 cup of chopped celery
0.5 cup of 97% fat-free ham
0.75 cup of shredded Kraft® reduced fat cheddar cheese
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
0.25 cup of sweet pickle relish
0.5 cup of fat-free ranch salad dressing
0.5 cup of non-fat mayonnaise
1 tsp of dry mustard
0.25 tsp of black pepper

How to prepare

Combine the first 6 ingredients.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients.
Add the mixture to the macaroni and toss it to coat.
Refrigerate it until it is ready to serve.
You can add chopped hard-boiled egg if desired.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham and add in extra vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers.
To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are free from gluten.
For a spicy kick, add in a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapenos.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the macaroni until it is al dente, as overcooked pasta can become mushy in the salad.

- For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta in place of traditional macaroni.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables or protein sources, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.

- To enhance the flavor of the salad, you can add in fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Serving Suggestions

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone meal. It pairs well with barbecue dishes, fried chicken, or as a topping for a bed of mixed greens.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the macaroni according to package instructions and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.

- When combining the ingredients, be gentle to avoid breaking up the macaroni or other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the ranch dressing with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist.

- Instead of ham, you can use cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon for a different flavor profile.

- If you don't have sweet pickle relish, you can chop up sweet pickles or use a combination of honey and vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

To make this salad more visually appealing, garnish it with a sprinkle of paprika, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it in a decorative bowl or on a bed of lettuce for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches. It also goes well with fresh fruit, potato chips, or a side of coleslaw.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 20%

- Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Eggs

Summary

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. However, individuals with dairy or egg allergies should be cautious when consuming this salad.

Summary

Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a mix of creamy, crunchy, and savory ingredients, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Martha was an incredible cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on iced tea, Martha suddenly jumped up and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe to share with you today! It's a family favorite - Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad." Intrigued, I watched as she pulled out an old, weathered recipe card from a well-loved recipe box.

Martha explained that the recipe had been passed down to her from her husband's grandfather, Cliff. Cliff was a renowned chef in his day, known for his inventive dishes and bold flavors. Martha had learned the recipe from him during their early years of marriage, and it had quickly become a beloved staple in their household.

As Martha walked me through the steps of making the salad, I could see the passion and love she had for the dish. It was a simple yet flavorful combination of cooked macaroni, sweet peas, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and a hint of mustard. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and refreshing.

I watched as Martha effortlessly tossed the ingredients together, her hands moving with a practiced ease. She explained that the key to the salad's success was in the balance of flavors and textures - the creaminess of the dressing contrasting with the crunch of the vegetables, the sweetness of the peas complementing the savory macaroni.

As we sat down to enjoy the salad together, I was struck by how such a simple dish could evoke such warm memories and feelings. Martha shared stories of family gatherings and summer picnics where Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad had been the star of the show. It was a dish that brought people together, creating moments of joy and connection.

Inspired by Martha's passion and the deliciousness of the salad, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. I asked Martha for a copy of the recipe, which she gladly provided, along with some tips and tricks to ensure success.

Over the years, I have made Cliff's Macaroni Pea Salad countless times, sharing it with friends and family at gatherings and potlucks. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Martha's kitchen, where I first learned the recipe. The dish has become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a symbol of tradition and love passed down through generations.

As I sit here now, penning this story, I can't help but feel grateful for the role that food has played in my life. It has not only nourished my body but also my soul, connecting me to loved ones and cherished memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.