It may not officially be summer yet, but we are certainly having summer weather here in Georgia, with high humidity and temperatures in the 90s. This is the kind of weather that has me craving cool pasta salads for dinner, such as Ham and Macaroni Salad. Quick and easy to put together, this salad is great as a main dish, but could also serve as a side dish at large gatherings for events such as the fast approaching Fourth of July. The recipe is very forgiving, so add or subtract any favorite ingredients as you see fit (other vegetables, diced or crumbled cheese, chopped hard-boiled eggs, sunflower seeds, olives, etc.) and/or substitute any meat for the ham, then dig in and enjoy!
Ham and Macaroni Salad
1 box (about 14 oz.) whole wheat macaroni
3/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 C. frozen peas
1 C. diced celery (about 3 stalks)
1 bunch slender scallions, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1 C. shredded carrots
1/2 C. sweet relish
2 C. diced ham
1 3/4 C. mayonnaise
salt to taste
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and add the macaroni and salt. Cook for about 8 minutes, and then stir in the peas. Cook for a few more minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, return to the pot, and allow to cool slightly. Stir in the remaining ingredients in the order listed. Refrigerate for at least a couple of hours to allow the flavors to blend. Serves 12 as a side dish, or 8 as a main dish.
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