How to Make Cold Macaroni Salad(Sopa fria)-A refreshing Summer Classic

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted a properly made cold macaroni salad at my mother’s house on a scorching summer afternoon.

The way the chilled pasta, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing came together was nothing short of magical.

Today, I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for this beloved dish, also known as Sopa Fria in some Latin American countries.

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or looking for a refreshing make-ahead lunch option, this cold macaroni salad recipe will become your go-to summer staple.

Why You’ll Love This Cold Macaroni Salad

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made macaroni salad.

The tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

What makes this version special is its versatility – you can enjoy it as a side dish, a light meal, or even as the star of your potluck contribution.

Plus, it gets better as it sits in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

The Secret to Perfect Sopa Fria

The key to an exceptional cold macaroni salad lies in three crucial elements: properly cooked pasta, a balanced dressing, and the right ratio of add-ins.

Let’s break down each component and learn how to achieve pasta salad perfection.

Essential Ingredients

For the Pasta Base:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Vegetables and Add-ins:

• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

• Bring a large pot of water to boil point, then add 1 tablespoon of salt.
• Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions but aim for slightly firm (usually 7-8 minutes). As the pasta absorbs the dressing, it will continue to get softer.
• Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Toss the cooled pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Preparing the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
• Add apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and garlic powder.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the pasta will absorb some of the seasoning, so be slightly more generous than you think necessary.
• Mix all items together until smooth and properly mixed.

Assembling Your Sopa Fria

• In the large bowl with the dressing, add the cooled macaroni.
• Add the diced celery, bell pepper, red onion, and carrots.
• Fold everything together gently until well combined.
• Add the chopped parsley and green onions, reserving some for garnish.
• Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with dressing.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours preferably 4 hours or overnight.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cold Macaroni Salad

• Pasta Choice Matters: While traditional elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to experiment with other short pasta shapes like rotini or shell pasta. Just make sure to choose a shape with nooks and crannies to hold the dressing.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Rinsing the pasta with cold water isn’t just about stopping the cooking process – it also washes away excess starch that could make your salad gummy.
• Make It Ahead: This salad actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just reserve some fresh herbs for garnishing right before serving.
• Temperature Control: Always keep your macaroni salad properly chilled, especially when serving outdoors. Consider placing your serving bowl in a larger bowl filled with ice.

Variations and Add-ins

Want to make this cold macaroni salad your own? Here are some popular variations:

• Protein Additions: Add diced ham, chicken, or tuna for a heartier meal
• Mediterranean Style: Include diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add corn, black beans, and diced jalapeños
• Seafood Version: Mix in cooked shrimp and crab meat with a touch of Old Bay seasoning

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Your cold macaroni salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, simply stir in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of milk to refresh the consistency.

FAQs

How much time does macaroni salad keep at room temperature?

For food safety, never leave macaroni salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

This time should be shortened to one hour in hot weather (above 90°F/32°C).

After this period, dangerously high levels of harmful bacteria can grow.

Always keep your macaroni salad chilled in

the refrigerator or in a bowl over ice when serving outdoors.

Can I make macaroni salad the night before?