Classic Macaroni Salad Made Lighter

Creamy, tangy, and full of nostalgic flavor, this Classic Macaroni Salad Made Lighter is a healthier take on the old-fashioned deli-style pasta salad many of us grew up eating. Inspired by the classic recipe from the back of the Hellmann’s mayonnaise jar, this lighter version keeps all the familiar flavor while trimming back the fat and calories with a simple swap of Greek yogurt for part of the mayo.

It’s the kind of easy side dish that belongs at summer picnics, backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. And honestly? Sometimes the simple classics really are the most satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Lightened Up Macaroni Salad

• Creamy, cool and comforting
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Lighter than traditional macaroni salad
• Perfect for cookouts, picnics and meal prep
• Ready ahead and tastes even better after chilling

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Light mayonnaise — Keeps the dressing creamy with less fat and calories than regular mayo.
• Plain non-fat Greek yogurt — Replaces part of the mayonnaise for extra protein and tang. Sour cream can also be used if preferred.
• Vinegar — Adds brightness and balances the creamy dressing. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar both work well.
• Prepared mustard — Gives the dressing classic deli-style flavor. Yellow mustard keeps it traditional, but Dijon works too.
• Sugar — Just a small amount balances the tanginess. Feel free to substitute your favorite sugar alternative if desired.
• Salt and black pepper — Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Elbow macaroni, cooked and drained — Classic macaroni salad pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted.
• Celery, sliced — Adds fresh crunch and texture.
• Green or sweet red bell pepper, chopped — Adds color and a little sweetness.
• Onion, finely chopped — Gives the salad its classic savory bite. Sweet onion or red onion both work well. Chopped scallion a milder option.

How Many Calories and WW Points in this Macaroni Salad?

Each serving has about 160 calories and 4 WW Points.
4 *PointsPlus (Old plan)

To see your WW Points for this recipe and track it in the WW app.

How to Make Classic Macaroni Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Vegetables

Add the cooked macaroni, celery, bell pepper and onion. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to fully chill.

Recipe Notes & Variations

One of my favorite ways to lighten classic recipes is by replacing part of the mayonnaise with plain non-fat Greek yogurt. It keeps the salad creamy while adding a little extra protein and reducing the fat and calories.

This recipe sticks pretty close to the classic proportions and flavors many of us remember from childhood — simple, creamy, and comforting.

Of course, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Some delicious additions include:

• Chopped dill pickles or sweet relish
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Diced ham or tuna
• Shredded carrots
• Peas
• Chopped fresh herbs
• Jalapeños for a little heat

Like many pasta salads, this macaroni salad actually tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator once the flavors have had time to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This lighter macaroni salad pairs perfectly with:

• Burgers or hot dogs
• Grilled chicken
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork
• Sandwiches and wraps
• Picnic and potluck spreads

It’s also delicious served alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad for an easy summer lunch.

Ways to Use Leftovers

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If the salad thickens after chilling, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, yogurt, or a little extra mayonnaise before serving to loosen the dressing.

Leftover macaroni salad also makes a great quick lunch paired with grilled chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.

If you’ve made this Lightened Up Macaroni Pasta Salad, please give the recipe a star rating below and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. And stay in touch on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.

Source: adapted from Back of the Box Gourmet (affiliate link) by Michael McLaughlin

More WW-Friendly Salad Recipes

If you like this lighter classic macaroni salad, you might also like:

• Lightened Up Creamy Red, White and Blue Potato Salad
• Dill Potato Salad
• Carrot Salad with Raisins & Walnuts,
• Lighter & Healthier Peas and Ham Pasta Salad
• Easy Weight Watchers Orzo Salad with Vegetables
• Easy Egg Salad, Simple & Delicious
• Summer Corn & Tomato Salad
• Cucumber Salad
• Slow Cooker German Potato Salad