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Mixed Veggie Macaroni Salad with Avocado Dressing

A vibrant and nutritious macaroni salad featuring fresh vegetables and a creamy avocado dressing, perfect for gatherings and meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Vegan
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 ounces elbow pasta or another short pasta shape
Vegetables
  • 1.25 cups finely chopped bell pepper Add a sweet crunch with a burst of color.
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery For refreshing crunch.
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped or grated carrot Sweet and visually appealing.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion Substitute chopped scallions if preferred.
  • optional chopped fresh herbs Infuse freshness and flavor.
Dressing
  • 1/2 large Hass avocado Creamy dressing.
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened plain non-dairy yogurt Adds a tangy creaminess.
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar Substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder For additional depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard A little kick that brightens the dressing.
  • 1/4 cup water To adjust dressing’s consistency.
  • pinch freshly ground black pepper For seasoning.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Drain again thoroughly.
Preparing the Dressing
  1. Gather the dressing ingredients: avocado, non-dairy yogurt, vinegar, salt, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and water.
  2. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add an extra tablespoon of water.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta.
  2. Toss in the chopped bell peppers, celery, carrots, and red onion (or scallions). If using herbs, add them now.
Dressing the Salad
  1. Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
  2. Gently toss until evenly coated.

Notes

For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds. Allow the salad to rest for about 30 minutes for better flavor.