Creamy Cajun Macaroni Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Macaroni Salad is a zesty twist on the classic macaroni salad. Packed with a creamy, spicy dressing, it combines the richness of mayonnaise with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, making it the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a family meal. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and smoky, spicy undertones is sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni, red bell pepper, celery, green onions, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a more substantial dish.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• For extra spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Cajun Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be made ahead of time, as the flavors only improve after resting. Do not freeze, as the texture of the pasta will change.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with penne, rotini, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

Is this salad spicy?
The salad has a mild to medium level of heat due to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, giving the flavors time to meld.

Can I omit the Cajun seasoning?
Yes, you can omit the Cajun seasoning if you prefer a milder flavor, but it will lose the signature spiciness.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Macaroni Salad is a bold, flavorful side dish that adds a kick to your meal. Its creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and zesty Cajun spice make it a perfect addition to any gathering. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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