Light, refreshing, and packed with wholesome flavor, this Weight Watchers Macaroni Salad is the perfect guilt-free dish for your next potluck or meal prep session. Made with tender elbow macaroni, creamy fat-free Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, and a tangy blend of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar, this salad delivers all the creaminess you crave without the extra calories. Crunchy diced celery, vibrant red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion add a colorful, crisp texture, while fresh parsley brings a burst of herbaceous freshness. Ready in just 25 minutes and boasting only a fraction of traditional saladβs fat content, this healthier take on a classic is ideal for weight-conscious eaters. Serve it chilled for a satisfying, figure-friendly side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Perfect for anyone following a calorie-conscious lifestyle, this macaroni salad is as flavorful as it is light.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Add the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine with the dressing.
Once the macaroni has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the dressing and vegetables. Gently toss until the macaroni is evenly coated.
Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a final stir. Optionally, sprinkle a light dusting of paprika over the top for garnish.
Serve chilled as a side dish and enjoy!
Calories |
1207 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.7 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g | 11% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 12 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 2114 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 205.1 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.6 g | 63% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.2 g | ||
| Protein | 60.2 g | 120% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 584 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 13.5 mg | 75% | |
| Potassium | 2436 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.