Name: No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 1/2 cups frozen green peas; 5 ribs celery, small diced; 1 large bell pepper, small diced; 8 to 10 sweet pickles, chopped (optional); 1/2 medium red onion, small diced (about 3/4 cup); 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 3/4 cup raw almonds, unsalted; 3 tablespoons pickle juice (or maple syrup to taste); 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/4 cup whole grain mustard; Salt to taste; 1 cup water (for blending)

If you’ve been searching for a fresh, vibrant twist on a classic side dish, then the No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This macaroni salad swaps out the usual creamy mayo for a bright, nutty almond-based dressing that adds an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor. Loaded with crisp celery, sweet peas, bell pepper, and a hint of dill, it balances texture and freshness perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser at any barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large wooden bowl contains colorful chopped ingredients arranged in separate sections: bright red diced bell peppers at the top left, finely chopped green pickles near the top right, small pale yellow pasta pieces below the pickles, chopped light green celery to the right of the pasta, finely chopped purple onions to the left of the pasta, a small pile of fresh green dill in the center, and bright green peas in the bottom left. Next to the bowl on a white marbled surface, there are five small white bowls with various items: smooth brown mustard in the top left, a pile of light brown garlic powder and white seasoning in the middle left, golden olive oil in a glass container below, reddish crushed chili flakes in the bottom left, and whole almonds in the top right. A woman's hand is not visible here. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is half the fun in this No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe. Each item has a role, whether it’s bringing crunch, tang, or brightness, so you’ll want to gather these simple but essential ingredients to create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds dressing beautifully, offering that perfect chewy bite.
Frozen green peas: Sweet pops of green that add both color and freshness to every bite.
Celery (small dice): Provides a satisfying crispness and subtle earthy contrast.
Large bell pepper (small dice): Adds vibrant color and a mild sweetness for balance.
Sweet pickles (chopped, optional): A tangy surprise that brings a subtle zing and crunch.
Red onion (small dice): A burst of sharpness that wakes up the salad without overwhelming it.
Fresh dill (chopped): Herbal notes that make this salad refreshingly bright.
Raw almonds (unsalted): Soaked to create the creamy, crunchy base for the dressing.
Pickle juice or maple syrup: The secret ingredient to add acidity or mild sweetness in the dressing.
Dijon mustard: A sophisticated tang that lifts the flavor profile.
Onion powder: Adds depth and a gentle savory undertone.
Mustard powder: A subtle heat that enhances the overall taste.
Whole grain mustard: Stirred in last for bursts of texture and more complex mustard flavor.
Salt: To bring out all those fantastic flavors perfectly.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Almonds

Start by gently soaking the raw almonds in boiling water for about 10 minutes. This softens them up just enough to blend into a creamy texture that forms the base of your no mayo dressing, adding natural crunch and nutty richness without heaviness.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Peas

Boil the elbow macaroni until perfectly al dente—just tender but with a slight bite. In the last minute of cooking, toss in the frozen peas so they gently cook and maintain their vibrant color and sweetness. Drain everything and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep that refreshing snap.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together your cooled macaroni and peas with finely diced celery, bell pepper, sweet pickles if using, red onion, and freshly chopped dill. Each addition brings a unique flavor and texture that makes this salad sing with every forkful.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Almond Dressing

Pour a cup of water into a blender and add the soaked almonds, pickle juice (or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness), Dijon mustard, onion powder, and mustard powder. Blend on high until the mixture is silky and smooth, adding extra liquid if needed to reach your preferred consistency. Transfer the dressing to a bowl, stir in the whole grain mustard for that delightful texture, and season with salt. This dressing is what makes the No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe so special—rich and flavorful without a dollop of mayo in sight.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Pour your almond dressing over the combined salad ingredients and toss well to ensure every bite is coated with that creamy, tangy goodness. This salad is fantastic served chilled for a cool, refreshing side or at room temperature to let the flavors really shine.

How to Serve No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe

A white wooden bowl filled with cooked elbow macaroni pasta mixed with small pieces of green herbs and tiny red bits scattered evenly throughout. Two wooden spoons rest inside the bowl, one positioned on the left side and the other on the right, both partially buried in the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten your presentation with a sprinkle of extra fresh dill or a handful of chopped almonds on top. For an extra pop, you can add a little fresh cracked black pepper or thinly sliced radishes, which provide an additional crunch and peppery bite that complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This macaroni salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted vegetables to create a balanced summer meal. If you’re dreaming of a picnic or potluck, it also holds its own alongside hearty sandwiches or spicy grilled sausages. The fresh, crunchy elements make it a welcome contrast to richer mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe layered in a beautiful glass bowl for a party, so guests can admire the colorful mix of veggies and pasta. Alternatively, scoop it into mini lettuce cups or stuff into hollowed-out bell pepper halves for delightful handheld bites perfect for gatherings or appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making leftovers even tastier. Just give it a quick stir before serving if the dressing settles at the bottom.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled and is not recommended for freezing, as the fresh vegetables and dressing texture may break down and become waterlogged once thawed.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off without losing that refreshing vibe.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides almonds in this recipe?

Absolutely! While almonds provide a lovely crunch and flavor, you can try soaked cashews or walnuts to create a different but equally delicious dressing. Just be mindful of the flavor changes each nut brings.

Is this salad vegan and allergy-friendly?

Yes, this No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free. However, if you have a tree nut allergy, substitute almonds with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds soaked and blended for the dressing instead.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Prepare the salad the day before to let all the flavors meld beautifully. Just store it chilled and give it a good mix before serving to revive the texture and taste.

Why is pickle juice used in the dressing?

Pickle juice adds a zesty tang and brightness that mimic some of the acidity mayo-based dressings bring, along with subtle savory notes. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can swap in maple syrup, but pickle juice really makes the dressing pop.

How can I make the dressing thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker dressing, use less water while blending, or add more soaked almonds. For a thinner dressing, simply add more water or pickle juice a tablespoon at a time until you get your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as discovering a macaroni salad that feels fresh, flavorful, and entirely unique. The No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe brings together crunchy veggies, a tangy, nutty dressing, and comforting pasta for a side dish that’s bursting with personality. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or craving a healthier twist on a classic, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients and dive in—your taste buds are in for a real treat!

No Mayo Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Almond Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need