Elisabeth's Refreshing Noodle Salad 🍜🥗

This delightful noodle salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even a light lunch. It's a breeze to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Cool, tangy, and full of crunch, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for hot summer days or as a make-ahead meal for busy weeks. ☀️🥒

Ingredients

For the salad

• 16 oz. elbow macaroni
• 6 oz. cooked, lean ham
• 2 bundles fresh parsley
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 3-4 oz. pickled cucumbers

For the dressing

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool completely.

   🔥 Tip: Rinse the macaroni with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and help it cool faster.

2. Prepare the ingredients: While the macaroni cools, chop the cooked ham into small cubes, finely chop the parsley, and grate or chop the onion.

3. Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chopped ham, parsley, onion, and pickled cucumbers.

4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice (or vinegar), vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.

5. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until well combined.

   🥗 Note: You can adjust the seasoning to taste. Feel free to add more lemon juice for brightness or additional oil for a richer flavor.

6. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Cheesy goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works great) for a creamy texture.
• Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to add a unique twist to your salad.
• Pasta alternatives: Try using different pasta shapes like rotini or farfalli for a fun presentation!

Enjoy this vibrant and comforting noodle salad as a refreshing addition to any meal! 🌿✨