Classic Macaroni Salad is a popular dish often served at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of comforting flavors, making it a favorite side dish for many occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/
4 cup red or green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot, grated
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles
Directions
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool down the pasta. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing along with the chopped celery, red onion, bell pepper, carrot, and chopped eggs (if using). Toss well to combine.
- If using, stir in the sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles.
- Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 7-10g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
Servings
- Serves: 6-8
Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or ingredients. Enjoy this timeless salad at your next outdoor gathering or as a comforting side dish any time of the year!
