When I think of Dolly Parton, I can’t help but smile. Her music and larger-than-life personality have brought joy to so many, and let’s be real—Dolly knows a thing or two about comfort food! Inspired by her love for hearty, satisfying dishes, I’m excited to share my version of the Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad. This creamy and flavorful salad is a delightful mix of textures, with the crunch of fresh veggies and the smoothness of the dressing coming together to create something truly special. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; it’s perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or just to have a comforting side dish on hand. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll feel like you’re sitting on a front porch in Tennessee, soaking in the sunshine and good vibes!
Ingredients for Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to whip up the Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – Cooked to al dente perfection, these little shapes hold onto the dressing beautifully.
- 1 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base that brings everything together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy richness that elevates the flavors.
- 1/2 cup chopped celery – For that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper – Sweet and colorful, it brightens up the salad.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion – A little punch of flavor that complements the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Just the right amount of tang to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – A hint of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped – For added protein and a delightful texture.
How to Prepare Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Getting your Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want that perfect bite! Once done, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help your salad stay nice and fresh!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until they’re smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens—trust me, the dressing is everything!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add some color and crunch! Toss in the chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs into the dressing. Gently fold in the cooled macaroni, mixing everything together until well coated. Don’t rush this step; make sure every noodle is covered in that creamy goodness!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
After everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial; it allows the flavors to meld and develop beautifully. Plus, serving it cold is just so refreshing! When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir, taste for seasoning, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Creamy texture: The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a luscious, smooth dressing that clings to every noodle.
- Flavorful and satisfying: With fresh veggies and a hint of sweetness, each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light lunch on its own.
- Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after chilling, so you can prepare it in advance!
Tips for Success with Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
To make your Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad even more delightful, here are some handy tips! If you want a lighter version, feel free to swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt—it adds creaminess with a tangy twist! For an extra kick, toss in some chopped pickles or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little heat. You can also add in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a pop of freshness. And don’t forget to taste as you go; adjust the seasoning to your liking for that perfect flavor balance!
Nutritional Information for Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Each serving of this delicious Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad is approximately 250 calories and contains 15g of fat, 6g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so feel free to adjust based on your personal choices and preferences!
FAQ about Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. It’ll still give you that creamy texture but with a tangy twist!
How do I store leftovers? Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad? Definitely! Feel free to get creative—cucumbers, peas, or even corn would make delicious additions. Just chop them up and toss them in!
Does this salad freeze well? I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the texture may change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled!
Serving Suggestions for Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Your Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad is a fantastic side dish that pairs wonderfully with so many meals! Serve it alongside grilled chicken or barbecue ribs for a classic summer cookout. It also shines at picnics, where it complements sandwiches or wraps perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, enjoy it with a fresh garden salad or some crispy roasted vegetables. And let’s not forget, it’s great on its own as a filling lunch option! Whatever you choose, this salad is sure to be a hit and bring a touch of Dolly’s charm to your table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad
Storing your Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you don’t need to reheat this salad—it’s best served cold! Just give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing, and you’re good to go! If you find it a bit thick after chilling, you can mix in a splash of mayonnaise or a bit of milk to loosen it up. Enjoy the deliciousness again without any fuss!
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Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Adore It
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful macaroni salad inspired by Dolly Parton.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, and sugar.
- Add celery, bell pepper, onion, and eggs to the bowl.
- Add the cooled macaroni and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, add more vinegar.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad, macaroni salad, creamy salad, American salad