1 serving (204 grams) contains 326 calories, 8.9 grams of protein, 8.2 grams of fat, and 54.3 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
326.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 8.2 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 6.1 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 428.4 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54.3 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 6.7 g | ||
| protein | 8.9 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 16.3 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 104.0 mg | 2% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Macaroni salad
Macaroni salad is a popular cold pasta dish originating in the United States, often served as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. It typically consists of cooked elbow macaroni combined with mayonnaise-based dressing, vegetables like celery, onions, or bell peppers, and sometimes proteins like ham or hard-boiled eggs. Its nutritional profile varies depending on ingredients, but generally, it provides carbohydrates from the pasta, fats from the dressing, and small amounts of protein. A standard serving (1 cup) typically contains around 300-400 calories, 22-30g of carbs, 10-15g of fat, and 5-7g of protein. Variations may include reduced-fat dressings or whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy from carbohydrates, which help fuel the body for daily activities.
- Contains dietary fats from mayonnaise, necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
- Vegetables in the salad, such as celery and bell peppers, contribute essential vitamins like vitamin C and fiber for digestive health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store macaroni salad covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for prolonged periods to prevent spoilage.
Common Questions About Macaroni salad Nutrition
Is macaroni salad high in protein?
Macaroni salad is not particularly high in protein as its primary ingredient is pasta made from refined flour, and proteins mostly come from add-ins like eggs or meat, if included. On average, a 1-cup serving of macaroni salad contains about 5–7 grams of protein, depending on the recipe.
Can I eat macaroni salad on a keto diet?
Macaroni salad is not keto-friendly due to its high carbohydrate content. A traditional serving of macaroni salad contains roughly 30–40 grams of carbs per 1 cup, which is far too high for most ketogenic guidelines that restrict daily carb intake to 20–50 grams.
Is macaroni salad healthy?
Macaroni salad can be calorie-dense and high in fats and refined carbs, especially when made with mayonnaise-based dressings. A typical 1-cup serving contains 300–400 calories and 20–30 grams of fat. While it can provide some nutrients like iron and B vitamins from pasta and added vegetables, it may not be the healthiest choice for daily consumption, especially for those watching calorie or fat intake.
What is a recommended serving size for macaroni salad?
A standard serving size for macaroni salad is about 1/2 to 1 cup, which equates to 150–300 calories depending on the recipe. If served as a side dish, sticking to 1/2 cup is often reasonable, while portions may be larger if it is served as a standalone meal.
How does macaroni salad compare to potato salad?
Macaroni salad is generally higher in refined carbohydrates and lower in potassium compared to potato salad. Potato salad can provide more fiber and vitamin C due to the potatoes, whereas macaroni salad tends to have more calories and fat if prepared with mayonnaise. Both are customizable, but the healthier option depends on how each is prepared and the portion sizes consumed.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Macaroni salad DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Carbohydrates and Dietary Patterns in the United StatesDietary Guidelines for AmericansDiscusses the role of carbohydrate-rich foods, like macaroni salad, in dietary patterns and recommended consumption guidelines.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
