BBQ Macaroni Salad

For 8 -10 servings, BBQ Macaroni Salad keeps the list centered on turkey kielbasa, elbow macaroni and red bell pepper. Set aside about 27 minutes.

• Yield 8 -10 servings
• Ready in 27 minutes
• Prep 15 minutes
• Cook 12 minutes

Ingredients

• 8-12 ounces turkey kielbasa (diced)
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 red bell pepper (seeded and finely chopped)
• 1 celery rib (finely chopped)
• 4 green onions (sliced thinly)
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 cup low-fat mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon canola oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped turkey kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer the meat to a paper towel-lined plate and let it cool slightly before using in the recipe.
2. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt and the macaroni and cook until nearly tender, about 6 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water until cool, draining again briefly. Transfer the moist pasta to a large bowl.
3. Stir in the kielbasa, bell pepper, celery, green onions, vinegar, hot sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Let the pasta sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors. Stir in the mayonnaise and barbecue sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.
4. The salad can be covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Check the seasonings before serving and stir in a few tablespoons of warm water before serving, if needed to bring the salad back to its creamy texture.

Dress it just before it goes to the table so the leaves stay crisp.