Calling All Pasta Lovers: It’s National Macaroni Day!

Calling all pasta lovers around the world! What better dish is there to bring to your next summer BBQs and beach picnics than a homemade macaroni salad or macaroni casserole?

Did you know that macaroni is one of the largest varieties of dry pasta? In fact, in the US alone the elbow macaroni noodle is the most common pasta used in many homemade recipes and restaurants! There is no denying that this tubule noodle is definitely a fan favorite.

3 Nutritional Benefits of Pasta

Other than its outstanding taste, there are many reasons to enjoy pasta. Pasta is versatile, convenient, and packed with nutrients to help your body function every day. You can enjoy that next pasta dish knowing you’re doing right by your body! Let’s take a closer look at the many nutritional benefits of pasta:

1. Long-lasting energy. Pasta noodles, like macaroni, are a carbohydrate that is an important macronutrient that provides fuel for your brain and muscles.

2. Packed with fiber. Depending on the brand and type of pasta you purchase, it can be loaded with tons of fiber! Fiber is great for helping with digestion and keeping you full for longer. Tip: look for the 100% whole wheat label on your next box of macaroni!

3. Enriched with essential vitamins. Many pasta noodles are enriched, or fortified, with essential vitamins like folic acid and other B vitamins. These important vitamins keep your body operating at its best.

4 Ways You Can Enjoy Macaroni

Now that you know the numerous reasons why you should be eating more pasta, it’s time to talk about recipes! Pasta is one of the most convenient and versatile pantry staples. It can be served in a casserole, in soup, as a salad, or even as dessert! The options are endless with this noodle. Here are 4 ways you can use macaroni at your next summer BBQ:

1. Macaroni Pie. This is a twist on the traditional Mac ‘N Cheese! Cook your pasta noodles as instructed on the box. Then mix eggs, milk, and cheese. Cover the macaroni with the mixture and put it into a baking dish. Bake at 350 for 8 to 10 minutes.

2. Macaroni Coleslaw. A usual fan favorite at everyone’s summer BBQ! After cooking your macaroni, add coleslaw mix, onions, celery, cucumber, green pepper, and water chestnuts. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 1 hour and serve!

3. Easy Tuna & Macaroni Casserole. In a large baking dish combine cooked macaroni noodles, tuna, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes. Top this off with some cheese and fried onions for some added texture!

4. Macaroni ‘N Cheese Soup. An interesting twist on Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Prepare mac and cheese as you normally would. Then, in a saucepan, mix together broccoli, onion, milk, and cheese. Once thoroughly mixed, add in your macaroni and your soup is complete!

With the summertime officially here, it’s time to take advantage of all it has to offer! Get outside, go to the beach, enjoy your summer BBQs- just don’t forget to pack your favorite macaroni dish.

Your Turn to Take Action: How will you enjoy macaroni noodles at your next summer BBQ? Let me know in the comments below.