Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

Posted on May 13, 2026

Creamy Greek yogurt macaroni salad with cucumbers, peppers, and fresh vegetables

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Why Make This Recipe

Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad is a healthy and delicious twist on a classic dish. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish at dinner. It’s colorful, bright, and loaded with crunchy vegetables, making it appealing to both kids and adults.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces macaroni (use gluten-free if desired)
  • 2 stalks celery (diced, about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 large carrots (diced, about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/2 bell pepper (diced, about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/4 cup sweet onion (chopped)
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain nonfat)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon each Sea Salt and Black Pepper (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (to garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and add the noodles to a large bowl.
  2. To the cooled macaroni, add the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix the dressing well to combine, and pour it over the macaroni and vegetables. Stir well to ensure the dressing coats all of the macaroni and vegetables.
  5. Taste, and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. Stir in the fresh parsley and chill before serving.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

Serve the macaroni salad chilled on a nice platter or in individual bowls. It can be garnished with extra parsley for a fresh look. This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can stand alone as a light meal.

How to Store Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days. If the salad seems dry after sitting, you can add a little more Greek yogurt or a splash of vinegar before serving.

Tips to Make Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

  • Make sure to rinse the macaroni under cold water after cooking to keep it from sticking together.
  • For extra crunch, consider adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers.
  • If you would like a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding other ingredients like boiled eggs, olives, or corn. Try different herbs such as dill or chives for a unique flavor.

Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad is creamy, refreshing, and packed with delicious flavor, making it the perfect healthy side dish for BBQs, lunches, and family gatherings.

For more comforting recipes, enjoy these cheesy oven-baked cheeseburger sliders or try these savory garlic parmesan chicken skewers. You can also discover this rich creamy deviled egg pasta salad for another crowd-pleasing side dish.

FAQs: Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad

  1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
    Yes, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier. Regular yogurt will work but may make the salad a little less creamy.

  2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
    This recipe is not vegan due to the use of Greek yogurt. However, you could substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.

  3. Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
    Yes, this salad tastes great when made a day in advance. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

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Creamy Greek yogurt macaroni salad with cucumbers, peppers, and fresh vegetables

Macaroni Salad with Greek Yogurt


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  • Author: larsa Nordin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A healthy and delicious twist on a classic macaroni salad using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces macaroni (use gluten-free if desired)
  • 2 stalks celery (diced, about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 large carrots (diced, about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/2 bell pepper (diced, about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/4 cup sweet onion (chopped)
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain nonfat)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and add the noodles to a large bowl.
  2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion to the cooled macaroni.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix the dressing well to combine, and pour it over the macaroni and vegetables. Stir well to ensure the dressing coats all of the macaroni and vegetables.
  5. Taste, and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
  6. Stir in the fresh parsley and chill before serving.

Notes

Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If it seems dry, add a little more Greek yogurt or vinegar before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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