Macaroni Fruit Salad
There’s something truly nostalgic about whipping up a batch of macaroni fruit salad—maybe it’s the sweetness of the fruit mingling with creamy goodness or the sheer simplicity of it all. I remember my Aunt Betsy serving this at every family reunion, and the thought of it makes my heart feel full. Picture a warm Southern day, the kids laughing, and the hum of cicadas in the air as we dig into that bright, colorful dish—yes, it’s the taste of summer encapsulated!
Why This Macaroni Fruit Salad Will Steal Your Heart
- It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner at home.
- The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a delightful side dish that even the pickiest eaters will love.
- It’s a no-fuss recipe with simple ingredients that come together beautifully, transforming everyday items into a delightful dish.
- Plus, the vibrant colors of the fruit make for a stunning presentation—great for when you want to impress without the stress.
A Sweet Memory in a Bowl
I can still see Grandma’s old mixing bowl filled to the brim with macaroni fruit salad, the sweet scent wafting through the kitchen as we all gathered around the table for lunch. It’s a dish that effortlessly brings everyone together, just like her warm hugs.
Ingredient list:
- 2 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 1 can fruit cocktail (840g, drained)
- 1 pack all-purpose cream
- 1 can condensed milk (390g)
- 1/2 cup cheese
- 60g dried raisins
- 500g elbow macaroni
- Water
- Salt
- Oil
Directions list:
- Cook the macaroni in 2 liters of boiling water with 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of salt until tender.
- Remove from water, drain, and cool.
- Transfer the macaroni pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise, fruit cocktail, all-purpose cream, condensed milk, cheese, and dried raisins.
- Mix well until combined.
- Transfer to a container with a lid and refrigerate before serving.
- Serve cool.
Cooking Unit Converter:
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A Little Note on Making It Your Own
Feel free to get creative with this macaroni fruit salad! Sometimes I toss in some chopped nuts or even a touch of coconut for a tropical flair. You can swap out the fruit cocktail for fresh fruits in season, too—whatever tickles your fancy!
Sometimes I make this ahead of time and let it chill overnight; the flavors meld together beautifully overnight. I’m telling you, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
As you whip up this macaroni fruit salad, just know that you’re not only making a dish; you’re creating memories that can last a lifetime (and leftovers never hurt either)!
FAQ:
Absolutely! Fresh fruits or different canned fruits can work wonderfully—just adjust the flavors to your liking.
It typically stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days!
Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen and meld together, which is a bonus!
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch option on its own.
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free macaroni. The rest of the ingredients are generally gluten-free!
Daily Calorie Needs Calculator:
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Hope you enjoy this Macaroni Fruit Salad as much as I did on a sunny afternoon, perhaps with a glass of sweet tea!
Macaroni Fruit Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the macaroni in 2 liters of boiling water with 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of salt until tender.
- Remove from water, drain, and cool.
- Transfer the macaroni pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise, fruit cocktail, all-purpose cream, condensed milk, cheese, and dried raisins.
- Mix well until combined.
- Transfer to a container with a lid and refrigerate before serving.
- Serve cool.
