How to Make Picnic Macaroni Salad - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to outdoor dining, nothing beats a classic picnic. And no picnic is complete without a hearty and delicious macaroni salad. This dish is a staple at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, and for good reason. It's easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is downright delicious.

Our picnic macaroni salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It's creamy, tangy, and packed with crunchy vegetables, making it a satisfying side dish for any outdoor gathering. Plus, it can be made ah...

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Ingredients

  • 1 (16 ounce) package macaroni
  • 1 ½ cups ranch dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 (6 ounce) can small pitted black olives, juice reserved
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
  • ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 (6 ounce) cans solid white tuna, drained and crumbled
  • 1 small red bell pepper, chopped

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain and let cool completely, about 30 minutes.
  • Mix ranch dressing, mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons reserved olive juice, garlic powder, adobo, and pepper together in a bowl.
  • Pour dressing mixture into cooled macaroni. Add olives, tuna, and red bell pepper to macaroni; stir well to combine. Chill until serving.
  • Nutrition

    611 cal.

    • Total Fat: 38g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Cholesterol: 30mg
    • Sodium: 720mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 47g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 4g
    • Protein: 19g
    • Vitamin C: 12mg
    • Calcium: 55mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 294mg