Macaroni Salad with Peas and Ham

 

It’s almost summer! It's the season for picnics, outdoor family gatherings and cookouts. Lots and lots of cookouts!  And it's always a tough decision trying to decide what to take to a cookout, right?  Well, who doesn't love pasta salad?  Let's face it, no barbecue or picnic is complete without a nice chilled macaroni salad. When I think about some of the food that represents summer, this recipe comes to mind.  This is my Mom's Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad with peas and ham.  The memory of this summer classic  makes me smile.

Macaroni Salad with Peas and Ham

1 1/2 cups mayonnaise (I used only Hellmann's or Dukes)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons sugar (more or less to taste)
2 cups pre-cooked elbow macaroni, drained well
1 cup ham, cut into small cubes
3/4 cup frozen baby peas
salt and pepper as desired

In a small bowl mix together the mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Empty frozen peas into a colander and pour hot water over them to thaw.  Set aside.





















In a larger bowl, combine cooked macaroni, ham and thawed peas. Add dressing a little at a time until you have the consistency you like. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.  

Optional add-ins:

Your favorite cheese, cut in cubes
sliced red onion
celery 
fresh dill
boiled eggs, chopped
sweet pickle relish

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