Smoked Gouda Macaroni Salad

This Smoked Gouda Macaroni Salad is a gourmet twist on the classic pasta salad. Incorporating the rich, smoky flavors of Gouda cheese, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious and satisfying meal. The smokiness of the Gouda pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing and the crispness of fresh vegetables, creating a multi-sensory experience that is as delightful to smell and look at as it is to taste. Perfect for a summer picnic or as a hearty side dish, its unique blend of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• 6 servings

Grocery Items Needed

• Macaroni pasta: 1 pound
• Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded: 1 cup
• Red bell pepper, finely chopped: 1 medium
• Celery, finely chopped: 2 stalks
• Red onion, finely chopped: 1 small
• Mayonnaise: 3/4 cup
• Sour cream: 1/4 cup
• Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons
• Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tablespoons

Preparation

1. Cook the macaroni pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, shredded smoked Gouda, chopped red bell pepper, celery, and red onion.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly. Make sure all ingredients are well-combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped fresh parsley.
6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Expert Tips

• For an extra touch of smokiness, you can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dressing.
• If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and mayonnaise.
• Ensure the pasta is cooled completely before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent the cheese from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Smoked Gouda Macaroni Salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs excellently with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a few turns of freshly ground black pepper right before serving to enhance its visual appeal and flavor.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 390
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 12g

Allergens: Milk (Gouda cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream), Wheat (macaroni), Eggs (mayonnaise)

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Smoked Gouda Macaroni Salad. Share your version of the recipe with friends and family or experiment with different ingredients to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!