Middle Eastern Inspired Macaroni Salad Recipes

POLYNESIAN-INSPIRED MACARONI SALAD

Steps:

• Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Cool completely. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook Spam until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Cool completely., For dressing, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, red pepper, water chestnuts, cooled Spam and macaroni. Add dressing; gently toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving. Top with green onions before serving.

MIDDLE EASTERN STYLE PASTA AND CHICKPEA SALAD

Steps:

• 1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water and drain well. Place in a large bowl.
• 2. Rinse and drain chickpeas and add to pasta in bowl.
• 3. Add tomatoes, celery, olives and green onion to pasta.
• 4. In a jar with a tight fitting lid, combine dressing ingredients. Place lid on jar and shake well.
• 5. Pour over pasta mixture and gently toss until coated. Let stand about 30 minutes or so.
• 6. Garnish with crumbled feta just before serving, if desired.

MIDDLE EASTERN-INSPIRED MACARONI SALAD

Steps:

• Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Cool completely. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, cook lamb over medium heat until no longer pink, 6-7 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain. Set aside to cool completely. , For dressing, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, onion, za'atar seasoning, macaroni and lamb. Add dressing; gently toss to coat. , Refrigerate until serving. Top with yogurt and lemon zest if desired.