Vintage 60’s Macaroni Salad

Vintage 60’s Macaroni Salad 🍝🥗

This classic macaroni salad is creamy, tangy, and packed with old-school flavor—just like Grandma used to make! Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a nostalgic side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

• ½ cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s or Duke’s for authenticity)

• ¼ cup sour cream (or more mayo if preferred)

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp celery salt (or regular salt + ¼ tsp celery seed)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup finely diced celery

• ¼ cup finely diced red onion (or sweet onion)

• ¼ cup diced red bell pepper (optional, for color)

• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional, but traditional)

• Paprika or fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni al dente (about 7-8 mins), rinse under cold water, and drain well.

2. Mix dressing: In a large bowl, whisk mayo, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, sugar, celery salt, and pepper.

3. Add veggies & macaroni: Fold in celery, onion, bell pepper, and egg (if using). Gently stir in cooled macaroni.

4. Chill & serve: Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (overnight is best!). Sprinkle with paprika or parsley before serving.

Vintage Tips:

• For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk before serving.

• Some 60’s versions included tuna, shredded carrot, or sweet relish—customize as you like!

• Serve in a retro glass bowl for full nostalgia.

This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or summer BBQs. Enjoy your blast from the past! 🕺💃

Would you like a 70’s-style gelatin salad next? 😉