The Ultimate Hellmann’s Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad is a nostalgic and comforting dish featuring tender pasta tossed with crisp vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy-sweet Hellmann’s mayo-based dressing. It’s easy to make ahead and always a hit.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or rotini/shells)
1 cup Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for classic taste)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced red bell pepper (or green for color contrast)
½ cup finely chopped red onion
½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
¼ cup chopped dill pickles or relish (optional)
2 boiled eggs, chopped (optional for extra richness)
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook Pasta:
Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together Hellmann’s mayo, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients:
Add cooled pasta to the dressing. Mix gently to coat. Add in cheese, celery, bell pepper, onion, olives, pickles, and boiled eggs if using. Toss until everything is well combined.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld. Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes & Tips
Make Ahead: Best made 1 day in advance for deeper flavor.
Mayo Substitute: Use half mayo, half sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
Add Protein: Diced chicken, ham, or bacon bits can turn this into a full meal.
Veggie Boost: Add peas, shredded carrots, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use light mayonnaise?
A: Yes! Hellmann’s Light Mayo or a half-yogurt blend works well and tastes great.
Q: Why rinse the pasta?
A: Rinsing stops the cooking and helps prevent the pasta from sticking together in the salad.
Q: How do I keep it from drying out?
A: Stir in a tablespoon or two of mayo before serving if it looks a bit dry after chilling.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Not recommended. Mayo-based salads don’t freeze well — they separate when thawed.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~350
Protein: 9g
Fat: 21g
Carbs: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g