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Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Mexican Macaroni Salad recipe offers a creamy, tangy, and flavorful twist on a classic side dish. Featuring smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese, it combines fresh ingredients and vibrant textures to create a satisfying and versatile salad perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or light meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup macaroni pasta (small, firm)
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1/2 cup sweet corn (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper (diced)
  • 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni pasta in salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Chop into bite-sized pieces and set aside to cool.
  3. Combine the Dressing Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the natural mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and natural gelling agent if using until smooth and creamy.
  4. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, toss together the cooled macaroni, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, black beans, corn, diced green bell pepper, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir gently until evenly coated.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld. Give it a final stir before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • Cook pasta until just al dente to prevent mushiness after chilling.
  • Adjust apple cider vinegar and cumin gradually to balance tanginess and warmth.
  • Chill the salad properly to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best taste and vibrancy.
  • Make the salad a day ahead to deepen the flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Mexican macaroni salad, creamy pasta salad, plant-based cheese salad, smoked turkey bacon salad, easy side dish

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/mexican-macaroni-salad/