Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad is a classic dish that many people love. It is creamy, tangy, and full of colorful vegetables. This salad is often served at family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues, making it a popular choice for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This macaroni salad is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it perfect for busy days. It is a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a delightful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a light meal on its own.
How to Make Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Making Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad is simple and quick. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried elbow macaroni (uncooked small elbows or shells)
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons mustard (plain yellow prepared)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (more or less to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (more to taste)
- 2 cups celery (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (peeled and chopped)
- 1/4 cup carrot (grated)
- 1 cup salad olives with pimentos (drained)
Directions:
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, cider vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, onion, carrot, and olives to the bowl. Mix everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Serve Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad chilled. It can be a side dish or part of a picnic spread. You can garnish it with fresh herbs for a nice touch.
How to Store Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Store leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a quick stir and check the seasoning, as flavors may change slightly over time.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. Some like it sweeter, while others prefer it tangier.
- Add diced pickles or sweet relish for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a healthier version, you can substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding cooked diced chicken, tuna, or bacon for a protein boost. If you like a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I make Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad a day ahead?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time. It tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to meld together in the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape, such as shells or rotini.
3. How do I make it vegan?
To make this salad vegan, use a plant-based mayonnaise and skip the sugar or use a vegan alternative. You can also add more veggies for extra texture and flavor.
Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound dried elbow macaroni (uncooked) small elbows or shells
Dressing
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons mustard (plain yellow prepared)
- 2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper adjust to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups celery thinly sliced
- 1 cup red bell pepper seeded and chopped
- 1/2 cup onion peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot grated
- 1 cup salad olives with pimentos drained
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, cider vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, onion, carrot, and olives to the bowl. Mix everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
