Cold Macaroni Salad with Ham and Mustard

Name: Cold Macaroni Salad with Ham and Mustard
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups macaroni (uncooked); 1 cup ham (diced); 1 cup celery (chopped); 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

90 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A refreshing cold macaroni salad featuring ham and a tangy mustard dressing, perfect for picnics or as a side dish.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

90 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cold macaroni salad with ham and mustard is a classic dish that brings together the comforting texture of pasta with the savoury taste of ham and the tang of mustard. This dish is perfect for hot summer days when you need something cool and satisfying. Macaroni salads have long been popular in North American cuisine, offering a versatile base that can be adapted with various ingredients. Adding ham gives it a protein boost, making it not only a side dish but also a light meal on its own. The mustard dressing adds a zesty kick that complements the other flavours beautifully.

Instructions

Cook the macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Pro tip: Rinsing the pasta in cold water helps stop the cooking process and cools it down quickly.

Prepare the vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop the celery, red bell pepper, and red onion. Dice the ham into small cubes.

Pro tip: Try to keep the vegetable pieces uniform for even distribution.

Mix the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the mustard and mayonnaise to taste if you prefer a stronger or milder flavour.

Combine the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, diced ham, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion.

Add the dressing

Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

Pro tip: Ensure every ingredient is coated by folding the salad gently with a spatula.

Chill the salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Pro tip: Chilling allows the flavours to meld together for a tastier salad.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality ham for the best flavour.
Chill the salad for at least an hour for optimal taste.
Adjust mustard and mayonnaise to your taste preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is salade de pates au jambon?

It is a pasta salad featuring ham, often dressed with a mustard-based dressing.

How do you make salade de macaroni au jambon?

Cook macaroni, prepare vegetables, mix with ham and a mustard dressing, then chill.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can use any mustard you prefer, such as yellow or spicy brown.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I add different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cold macaroni salad at your next barbecue or picnic. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish. To make ahead, prepare the salad but add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.