Description
This Marry Me Macaroni Pasta Salad features a delightful combination of flavors from rotisserie chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy dressing. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering, providing a delicious homemade dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil, from the jar
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse the macaroni under cold water to cool, then set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, sun-dried tomato oil, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, mozzarella pearls, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir before serving and add salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using herb-infused olive oil or adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
This pasta salad can be made in advance, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Feel free to customize with other vegetables or proteins based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
