I realize that Crunchy Macaroni Salad is a bit of an oxymoron. I tried to come up with a more sophisticated description, but it’s the only way I can describe this tasty twist on the traditional macaroni salad. 

 

Crunchy Macaroni Salad by Diverse Dinners

 

The crunch comes from the carrot, radishes and celery. The radishes and celery are cut into thin slices, but instead of grating the carrots, to give that extra crunch, I cut them into strips using a julienne peeler. I also added corn which applies a little sweetness to this combo, and onion for character. These ingredients come together with some elbow macaroni which really helps to bring the different consistencies together. Finally sour cream and mayo are whipped together with some vital seasoning to make this Crunchy Macaroni Salad a winner.

 

Crunchy Macaroni Salad by Diverse Dinners

 

It’s Memorial Day Weekend and folks in my neighborhood are already out. They’ve claimed their spots in Marcus Garvey Park for their family cookout. Tents have been erected, music is playing, grill is in place and the nominated family member is on guard. I’m taking it easy this weekend, as I have so much to do in June. 

  • PopUp Dinner
  • Birthday Shindig
  • Trip to Jamaica
  • Plus much more

Check me out on Instagram Stories (@diversedinners)  I often share what I get up to when I’m out of the kitchen. 

This weekend is all about relaxation and stimulation for me. I bought a projector yesterday, and I immediately unwrapped it and watched a couple of movies on my rooftop. Watching movies with the skies all around you is so much fun. I just hope the rain holds off, or passes quickly for the balance of this weekend so I can continue watching movies under the stars.

Getting back to this Crunchy Macaroni Salad recipe. No need to tell you that it is great for family gatherings during Memorial Day Weekend, July 4th and Labor Day. The crunchy ingredients hold up to the creamy dressing very well, and therefore this dish is an ideal addition to an all day family buffet. Give this recipe a try and enjoy.

 

Crunchy Macaroni Salad

Prep Time22 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni cooked
  • 2 cups corn
  • 2 tbsp red onion
  • 1 carrot cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup celery sliced thin
  • 1 cup radish sliced thin
  • 1/2 tsp celery seeds
  • 1/2 tsp fine salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp chives chopped

Equipment & Utensils

  • Large mixing bowl

Instructions

  • Place macaroni, corn and onion into a large bowl and mix thoroughly.
  • Add carrot, celery and radishes, and again, mix thoroughly.
  • Mix together celery seeds, salt and pepper and then sprinkle over macaroni mixture , and mix some more.
  • Whisk together mayonnaise and sour cream and then add to macaroni mixture and mix thoroughly to complete the dish.
  • Sprinkle with chives and serve.

Notes

Use a Y julienne peeler to create carrot strips.