MIDDLE EASTERN-INSPIRED MACARONI SALAD

Middle Eastern-Inspired Macaroni Salad image

This creamy, tangy macaroni salad is inspired by the many wonderful flavors of the Middle East. The za'atar seasoning gives it an earthy (and delicious!) taste. -Ruth Hartunian-Alumbaugh, Willimantic, Connecticut

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 25m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

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Ingredients

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/2 pound ground lamb
1 cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 can (16 ounces) garbanzo beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 to 2 teaspoons za'atar seasoning
Optional toppings: plain yogurt and lemon zest

Steps:

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Cool completely. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, cook lamb over medium heat until no longer pink, 6-7 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain. Set aside to cool completely. , For dressing, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, onion, za'atar seasoning, macaroni and lamb. Add dressing; gently toss to coat. , Refrigerate until serving. Top with yogurt and lemon zest if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 361 calories, Fat 25g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 21mg cholesterol, Sodium 329mg sodium, Carbohydrate 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 10g protein.