Here’s a classic and easy-to-make Macaroni Salad recipe, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (or chopped dill pickles)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine the salad:
- In a large bowl, add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and shredded carrots (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add the eggs:
- If you’re using hard-boiled eggs, fold them into the salad gently.
- Chill:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the salad chill. The longer it sits, the better the flavor!
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired before serving. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Macaroni Salad!
Tips:
- Variations: Add in ingredients like peas, corn, or even cubed cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Make ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge until serving—it often tastes better the next day!
- Vegan option: Use a plant-based mayo and skip the hard-boiled eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
This Macaroni Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser and can be customized based on your tastes—whether you like it creamy, tangy, or a little sweet!
