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Creamy vegan macaroni salad with fresh vegetables and herbs in a bowl

Delicious Vegan Macaroni Salad for Everyone

A creamy and tangy vegan macaroni salad packed with fresh vegetables, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easily customizable and great for make-ahead preparation.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Lunch, Picnic Food, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • knife
  • cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound macaroni pasta
  • 1 small red bell pepper diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • cup red onion diced
  • ¼ cup sweet pickles diced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise use vegan for plant-based version
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 1 ½ tablespoons dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper

Notes

  • Vegan mayonnaise substitution Recipe is vegan when vegan mayonnaise is substituted for regular mayonnaise.
  • Pickle option Pickles are optional; sweet or dill varieties are acceptable.
  • Pasta substitution Pasta can be substituted with chickpea pasta or gluten-free alternatives.
  • Vegetable ratio Adjust vegetable quantities to maintain a ratio that allows the sauce to coat the pasta thoroughly.
  • Make ahead Salad can be made ahead of time.

Instructions
 

  • Cook macaroni pasta according to package directions. Drain and allow to cool slightly.
  • Dice the red bell pepper, celery, red onion, carrots, and parsley.
  • Whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  • Combine the cooled pasta and diced vegetables in a large bowl.
  • Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly coated.
  • Serve the macaroni salad immediately, or cover and chill for later.

Storage

  • This salad is suitable for make-ahead preparation and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

This vegan macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser, offering a creamy texture with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile. For best results, ensure all vegetables are finely diced and evenly coated with the dressing. It's perfect for picnics and can be made a day in advance.
Keyword dairy-free macaroni salad, plant-based pasta salad, vegan macaroni salad, vegan side dish