Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe

This Tomato and Macaroni Salad recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic pasta salad. It combines the comforting familiarity of elbow macaroni with the fresh and juicy tomatoes, all tied together with a creamy, tangy dressing. This is not just a side dish - it's a statement.

Photos of Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are likely to be found in your pantry, the fresh marjoram might not be readily available. Marjoram is a slightly sweet and aromatic herb that's often used in salad dressings. If unavailable, you can substitute it with an equal amount of oregano.

Ingredients for the Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Elbow macaroni: a versatile pasta shape that's perfect for chunky sauces and salads.

Eggs: these will add a nice texture and protein to the salad.

Light mayonnaise: for that creamy texture we love in a salad.

Creamy salad dressing: adds a tangy flavor to the salad.

Spicy brown mustard: gives a spicy kick to the otherwise mild flavors.

Dry ground mustard: it enhances the flavor of the salad even more.

Fresh marjoram: a fragrant herb that gives the salad a unique flavor.

Tomatoes: they add a burst of freshness and acidity to the salad.

Salt and ground black pepper: for seasoning.

One reader, Berenice Hanes says:

This tomato and macaroni salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy dressing, tangy mustard, and fresh tomatoes creates a burst of flavors. The macaroni adds a delightful texture, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Berenice Hanes

Techniques Required for Making Tomato and Macaroni Salad

How to cook elbow macaroni: Boil the macaroni in lightly salted water for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is cooked through but still firm to the bite. Drain and rinse with cold water until the pasta is chilled.

How to mix the salad: Combine the cooked elbow macaroni, hard-cooked eggs, light mayonnaise, creamy salad dressing, spicy brown mustard, dry mustard, and marjoram in a large salad bowl until thoroughly combined.

How to incorporate tomatoes: Gently stir in the ripe tomatoes, making sure to include the juice from the cutting board. Ensure the tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

How to season: Season the salad with salt and ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.

How To Make Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Put together a creamy side with this macaroni salad tossed with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and marjoram in mayonnaise and mustard dressing.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Cool Time: 10 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16ozelbow macaroni,(1 package)
6eggs,hard cooked, chopped
15ozlight mayonnaise,(1 jar) such as Hellmann’s Light®
15ozcreamy salad dressing,(½ jar) such as Miracle Whip®
3½tbspspicy brown mustard
1tbspdry ground mustard
1tbspfresh marjoram,chopped
6large ripe tomatoes,chopped
salt and ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite.
Drain and rinse with cold water until pasta is chilled.
Mix elbow macaroni, hard-cooked eggs, light mayonnaise, creamy salad dressing, spicy brown mustard, dry mustard, and marjoram in a large salad bowl until thoroughly combined.
Stir in tomatoes, making sure to include the juice from the cutting board. Season with salt and black pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 703.96kcal
Fat: 49.04g
Saturated Fat: 8.53g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 24.36g
Carbohydrates: 53.30g
Fiber: 3.89g
Sugar: 8.36g
Protein: 13.52g
Cholesterol: 119.97mg
Sodium: 742.61mg
Calcium: 56.48mg
Potassium: 516.24mg
Iron: 2.07mg
Vitamin A: 101.50µg
Vitamin C: 15.98mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Tomato and Macaroni Salad

When incorporating the tomatoes into the salad, it's important to add not just the chopped pieces, but also the juice that's released during cutting. This juice contains a lot of flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the salad. To do this, chop the tomatoes on a cutting board with a groove around the edge to catch the juice. After chopping, tilt the board slightly to pool the juice and then pour it into the salad bowl.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Cook the macaroni and hard-boil the eggs a day in advance to save time on the day of making the salad.

Use pre-cut tomatoes: Consider using pre-cut or canned tomatoes to save time on chopping and preparing fresh tomatoes.

Multi-task: While the macaroni is boiling, you can simultaneously prepare the other ingredients to save time and be more efficient in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Chill in advance: Chill the macaroni in the refrigerator ahead of time, so it's ready to use when you're assembling the salad.

Substitute Ingredients For Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe

elbow macaroni - Substitute with penne: Penne is a great substitute for elbow macaroni as it has a similar shape and texture, and it holds sauces well.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a substitute for eggs in this recipe to make it suitable for a vegan diet.
light mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for light mayonnaise, providing a creamy texture with a tangy flavor.
creamy salad dressing - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for creamy salad dressing to add a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the salad.
spicy brown mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute for spicy brown mustard, providing a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
dry ground mustard - Substitute with prepared mustard: Prepared mustard can be used as a substitute for dry ground mustard, providing a similar mustard flavor with a smoother texture.
fresh marjoram - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano can be used as a substitute for marjoram, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
large ripe tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for large ripe tomatoes, providing a sweeter and more bite-sized alternative.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Elevate the plating: When presenting the tomato and macaroni salad, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, white, or glass serving platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and macaroni.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil and parsley over the salad to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The green herbs will complement the red tomatoes and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to bring a touch of elegance and a hint of floral notes to the salad. The edible flowers will add a whimsical and luxurious touch to the presentation.
Use high-quality serving utensils: Opt for sleek and polished stainless steel serving utensils to elevate the overall presentation. The use of quality utensils will convey attention to detail and professionalism.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the tomatoes and macaroni salad in a visually appealing and symmetrical pattern on the serving platter. A well-organized presentation will demonstrate precision and artistry.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction over the salad in an artistic manner. The rich and tangy flavor of the balsamic reduction will enhance the overall taste and add a touch of gourmet flair to the dish.
Serve on chilled plates: Prior to plating, chill the serving plates in the refrigerator. The contrast between the cold plates and the vibrant salad will create an enticing visual appeal and maintain the freshness of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Salad

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of food preparation tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Large pot: Used for boiling pasta or cooking large quantities of food.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Salad bowl: A large bowl used for mixing and serving salads or pasta dishes.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together or incorporating air into a mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Serving spoon: A large spoon with a long handle, used for serving food.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing ingredients together.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making sauces or boiling liquids.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Tomato and Macaroni Salad

To store the tomato and macaroni salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you want to freeze the salad, it's best to do so before adding the tomatoes. Prepare the salad as directed, but omit the tomatoes and store them separately in the refrigerator.
Place the salad in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and contents.
Freeze the salad for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the salad overnight in the refrigerator.
Once thawed, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. If the salad seems a bit dry, you can add a little extra mayonnaise or creamy salad dressing to restore the texture.
Before serving, chop the reserved tomatoes and stir them into the thawed salad. This will ensure that the tomatoes retain their fresh flavor and texture.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy!

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Refrigerate the leftover tomato and macaroni salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors from the fridge.
When ready to serve, remove the salad from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help take the chill off and allow the flavors to develop.
If the salad seems a bit dry, you can add a small amount of mayonnaise or creamy salad dressing to moisten it up. Be careful not to add too much, as this can make the salad overly soggy.
Give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
For a fresh twist, you can add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives to brighten up the flavors.
If you prefer your salad slightly warm, you can microwave individual portions for 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the macaroni to become mushy and the dressing to separate.
Alternatively, you can place the salad in a covered dish and reheat it in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Stir the salad halfway through the reheating process to ensure even warming.

Interesting Trivia About Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Elbow macaroni is a type of pasta that is shaped like small, curved tubes. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to casseroles.

Is Making This Salad Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This tomato and macaroni salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as eggs, mayonnaise, and tomatoes, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of pantry staples like mustard and dried herbs also adds to its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The tomato and macaroni salad recipe, while tasty, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing, which are high in fat and calories.
The use of both light mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing may result in an excessive amount of saturated fat and sugar.
The recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, as macaroni is a refined carbohydrate.
While tomatoes provide some nutrients, the overall vegetable content in the salad is limited.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing with plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Incorporate additional vegetables into the salad, such as diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta instead of regular elbow macaroni to boost the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing used, and instead, enhance the flavor with herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Consider using a combination of whole eggs and egg whites to reduce the overall cholesterol content while maintaining the protein benefits.

Editor's Opinion on the Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe

The tomato and macaroni salad recipe you provided is a classic and comforting dish, perfect for picnics or potlucks. The combination of creamy dressing, spicy mustard, and fresh marjoram creates a flavorful base for the macaroni and eggs. The addition of ripe tomatoes adds a burst of freshness and juiciness to the salad. However, I would suggest adding a touch of acidity, perhaps with a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice, to brighten the flavors. Overall, it's a satisfying and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal.

Enhance Your Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of smoky and savory flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy This Salad

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Beef Stew: Slow cook tender beef with a medley of vegetables and herbs for a hearty and comforting stew.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend ripe mangoes with creamy coconut milk and freeze for a refreshing and tropical dessert.

Chicken Noodle Soup: Simmer chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth for a comforting and nourishing soup.

Berry Crumble: Combine fresh berries with a buttery crumble topping and bake until golden and bubbly for a delightful dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Tomato and Macaroni Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. A refreshing and colorful appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries is a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of tomatoes and macaroni, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of hard-cooked eggs and a medley of spices infuses the dish with depth and richness. The use of light mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing ensures a creamy and luscious texture, while the inclusion of spicy brown mustard and dry ground mustard adds a hint of piquancy. The incorporation of fresh marjoram further elevates the dish, offering a burst of aromatic freshness. With ripe tomatoes as the star ingredient, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying salad experience.

Share your thoughts on the Tomato and Macaroni Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this classic dish even better!

FAQ:

How long does the tomato and macaroni salad last in the refrigerator?

The tomato and macaroni salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it necessary to use both light mayonnaise and creamy salad dressing?

You can customize the dressing to your preference. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use only light mayonnaise. If you want a creamier texture, you can use only creamy salad dressing. Feel free to adjust the proportions based on your taste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can definitely make this salad ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld together even better after it sits for a few hours in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can personalize the salad by adding other vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the tomatoes. It's a great way to add more color and flavor to the dish.