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If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both Weight Watchers-friendly and a guaranteed hit, this BBQ Macaroni Salad is the answer. With just 2 WW points per serving, this salad packs a punch of smoky, spicy flavors thanks to BBQ sauce, jalapenos, and pinto beans. It’s a unique twist on the classic macaroni salad, making it a standout addition to any meal or gathering. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and is sure to vanish fast once served. Don’t miss out on trying this crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is guilt-free!
Ingredients in Spicy BBQ Macaroni Salad
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This Spicy BBQ Macaroni Salad is packed with flavor and texture. You’ll need 8 oz of dry whole-grain elbow pasta as the base. Add ⅔ cup of diced bell pepper (any color), 1 medium diced jalapeño, ⅔ cup of diced red onion, and ¾ cup of cooked pinto beans (drained and rinsed if using canned) for a hearty mix. For the dressing, combine ⅔ cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup of your favorite low-point BBQ sauce (like Baby Ray’s no sugar added), and 1 teaspoon (plus more to taste) of your favorite hot sauce (such as Cholula Chili Garlic). Season with garlic powder, ½ teaspoon (plus more to taste) of salt, ¼ teaspoon (plus more to taste) of black pepper, and ⅓ cup of light mayo. Finish it off with a touch of smoked paprika and, optionally, 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy kick.
Cook Pasta
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Follow the package directions to cook the pasta. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let it cool.
Prep Ingredients and Dressing
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While the pasta cooks, chop the necessary ingredients and whisk the dressing until smooth.
Final Mix and Seasoning
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Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning by adding more hot sauce or spices if needed. Then, in a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped ingredients and dressing, gently folding everything together until well mixed.
Chill and Serve
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Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for the flavors to develop.
Variations and Substitutions
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- Pasta Type: Swap in farfalle, penne, rotini, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta. Note that this may change the WW points.
- BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad: Replace some Greek yogurt with ranch dressing or add ranch seasoning for a classic ranch flavor that complements BBQ sauce.
- Add Meat: Make it heartier with cubed or shredded chicken, pulled pork, or smoked sausage pieces for a BBQ chicken pasta salad.
- Add More Veggies: Enhance the salad with corn, green onions, celery, shredded cabbage, carrots, or shallots for extra crunch and flavor.
- Save a Point: Lighten it up by skipping the mayo and using Greek yogurt, or reduce the BBQ sauce.
- Splurge Version: Use regular pasta instead of whole wheat and more mayo instead of Greek yogurt for a richer dish, adding other favorite ingredients if points aren’t a concern.
Tips and Tricks for Making Spicy BBQ Macaroni Salad
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- Adjust the Spice: Customize the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce, or leave it out entirely to suit your family’s preferences.
- Rinse the Pasta: Rinse the cooked pasta to prevent sticking and cool it faster. This also removes excess starch, ensuring the dressing clings well.
- Make Ahead and Store: Prepare the dressing a couple of days in advance and store it. Cook the pasta and chop veggies the night before for easy assembly. Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
