Jump To Recipeby Liz Thomson
May 20, 2023This post may contain affiliate links.
This healthy macaroni salad recipe is packed with fresh veggies, chickpea pasta, and a high-protein dressing that makes this side dish super creamy! This satisfying dish is low in calories and high in flavor, perfect for your next cookout!
I have to admit that for many years, I thought I didn’t like macaroni salad. I’ve never been a big fan of mayonnaise, although I’ve recently accepted that a little bit of mayonnaise can be a wonderfully simple way to add flavor to dressings and dips. But I’ve never found myself craving a mayonnaise-heavy salad like coleslaw, potato salad, or traditional macaroni salad.
I didn’t want to give up on the idea of a macaroni salad, but I also didn’t want to try to substitute Greek yogurt in a dish like this. While I love Greek yogurt, the tangy flavor can throw off savory dishes like this one. That’s when I had an idea… why not try blended cottage cheese? It’s worked well in pasta sauce and pudding, so I thought it was worth trying!
You guys, it worked SO WELL. The results were delicious, and my husband ate a whole serving without even a raised eyebrow or a “What did you use in this?” so you know it tastes like the real deal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Macaroni– I used chickpea pasta because it has more protein and fiber, but this recipe also works with whole wheat noodles or regular pasta.
Cottage cheese– I used low-fat cottage cheese, but full-fat cottage cheese will make this even creamier.
Mayonnaise– A little bit of mayonnaise adds creaminess and flavor. So don’t skip it! But you can use vegan mayo or olive oil mayonnaise.
Red wine vinegar– A splash of vinegar amplifies the tangy flavor. You can substitute this for apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice.
Celery– Minced celery adds a nice crunch to the salad. Don’t skip it!
Carrots– I prefer the flavor of freshly shredded carrots. I shred them on a small box grater. But you can buy pre-shredded carrots if you need to save time.
I gave this recipe a try with chickpea pasta, and it turned out fantastic! The creaminess of the cottage cheese is just perfect. I’ll definitely be making this again!
I usually avoid eating macaroni salad because it’s not all that healthy, so I was glad to come across this healthy version! I like how this recipe calls for healthier dressing ingredients, like the cottage cheese, and some chickpeas for added protein. Thanks for sharing!
Hey there! Just wanted to drop by and say how much I loved your post on the Healthy Macaroni Salad. It’s an absolute winner in my book! The combination of fresh vegetables, whole wheat pasta, and that creamy yet light dressing is simply delightful. I appreciate how you’ve managed to create a healthier version without compromising on taste. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is incredibly satisfying. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t thank you enough for sharing it. Keep up the fantastic work!
I gave this recipe a try with chickpea pasta, and it turned out fantastic! The creaminess of the cottage cheese is just perfect. I’ll definitely be making this again!
That creamy cottage cheese dresssing stole my heart. This macaroni salad is so delicious.
I have everything I need for this dish, can’t wait to make it this weekend! My family is going to love this!
Booyah! This looks amazing. I love that I can get all that creamy flavor and texture but have it be healthy, too.
I usually avoid eating macaroni salad because it’s not all that healthy, so I was glad to come across this healthy version! I like how this recipe calls for healthier dressing ingredients, like the cottage cheese, and some chickpeas for added protein. Thanks for sharing!
I made this macaroni salad for a cookout over the weekend and it was incredible! Everyone was asking me for the recipe!
Hey there! Just wanted to drop by and say how much I loved your post on the Healthy Macaroni Salad. It’s an absolute winner in my book! The combination of fresh vegetables, whole wheat pasta, and that creamy yet light dressing is simply delightful. I appreciate how you’ve managed to create a healthier version without compromising on taste. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is incredibly satisfying. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t thank you enough for sharing it. Keep up the fantastic work!
I am in awe of how easy, healthy and delicious this pasta salad is. I can’t wait to impress at my families next picnic with this one.
I love this recipe so much. I’m a HUGE fan of macaroni salad, but I rarely make it because it’s so bad for you. I can’t wait to make this version!
I am so happy right now. Making macaroni salad healthy is the dream come true LOL Fantastic recipe!