Macaroni Salad No Mayo

Why You’ll Love Macaroni Salad No Mayo Recipe

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional macaroni salad, this recipe delivers all the creamy texture you crave without using mayonnaise. The blended almonds create a naturally rich base, while Dijon and whole grain mustard add bold flavor and depth.

It’s also packed with crunchy vegetables, bright herbs, and pops of sweetness from pickles and peas. The balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes every bite interesting. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in just 25 minutes and can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and barbecues.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 ounces elbow macaroni
1 ½ cups frozen green peas
5 ribs celery, small dice
1 large bell pepper, small dice
8 to 10 sweet pickles, chopped (optional)
½ medium red onion, small dice (about ¾ cup)
¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
¾ cup raw almonds, unsalted
3 tablespoons pickle juice (or maple syrup to taste)
¼ cup Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ cup whole grain mustard
Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Soak almonds: Place the almonds in a small saucepan and cover with water by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit for at least 10 minutes. Drain.

2. Cook pasta and peas: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. During the last minute of cooking, add the frozen peas. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Drain well.

3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta and peas, celery, bell pepper, sweet pickles (if using), red onion, and fresh dill. Set aside.

4. Make dressing: Add 1 cup water to a blender along with the pickle juice, soaked almonds, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and mustard powder. Blend on high until completely smooth, adding more pickle juice or water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the whole grain mustard. Season with salt to taste.

5. Assemble: Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

For extra crunch, add shredded carrots or chopped cucumber.

To boost protein, stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans.

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, substitute maple syrup for the pickle juice or use a combination of both.

For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the almonds before soaking them.

You can also swap fresh dill for parsley or chives if you want a slightly different herb profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly when chilled. If needed, add a splash of water or pickle juice to loosen the consistency.

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the vegetables and dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, allowing it to chill for a few hours helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Small shapes like shells, rotini, or bowties work well and hold the dressing nicely.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this macaroni salad is completely dairy-free since it uses an almond-based dressing instead of mayonnaise or cream.

Can I make it nut-free?

You can experiment with soaked sunflower seeds as a substitute for almonds to achieve a similar creamy texture.

What does the almond dressing taste like?

It’s creamy and slightly tangy with bold mustard flavor. The pickle juice adds brightness and balance.

Can I skip the sweet pickles?

Yes, they are optional. The salad will still be flavorful without them.

How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately to stop the cooking process.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables will change significantly once thawed.

How long can it sit out at a party?

It can safely sit out for about 2 hours. If it’s especially warm, keep it chilled until serving time.

Can I add extra mustard for more flavor?

Yes, feel free to adjust the Dijon or whole grain mustard to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This Macaroni Salad No Mayo is a flavorful, creamy, and refreshing alternative to the traditional version. With its vibrant vegetables, fresh herbs, and rich almond-mustard dressing, it’s a dish that feels both wholesome and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, meal prep, or a simple family dinner, this recipe offers a delicious and lighter way to enjoy a classic favorite.