Description
This Classic Macaroni Salad recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any occasion. Creamy and flavorful, with a blend of crunchy vegetables and tender pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, relish, and chopped eggs to the dressing. Mix gently to coat everything.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can customize this salad by adding diced ham, shredded carrots, or peas for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter option, substitute some of the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
