Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe

Classic macaroni salad is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to many gatherings. This creamy and delicious salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a favorite side dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

Making classic macaroni salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills. Second, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes for your event. Finally, the combination of creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables makes it a tasty and satisfying salad that pairs well with many main courses.

How to Make Classic Macaroni Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the dressing.
2. Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the dressing.
3. Stir in the diced celery, red bell pepper, chopped red onion, shredded carrots, and chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using).
4. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.

How to Serve Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic macaroni salad can be served chilled as a side dish to any meal. It’s especially great at summer barbecues or potlucks. You can place the salad in a large serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a few fresh herbs for a pop of color.

How to Store Classic Macaroni Salad

To store classic macaroni salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3 to 5 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.

Tips to Make Classic Macaroni Salad

• Make sure to cook the macaroni according to package instructions and let it cool completely before mixing with the dressing.
• You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Variation

For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will give a creamy texture while reducing calories. You can also add cooked chicken or tuna for a protein boost.

FAQs

1. Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare macaroni salad a day in advance. It will taste even better after the flavors have blended in the refrigerator.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as shells, rotini, or penne.

3. Is there a gluten-free option for macaroni salad?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a delicious gluten-free macaroni salad. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any dietary preferences.

Classic Macaroni Salad

This creamy and delicious classic macaroni salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings, offering a tasty side that pairs well with many main courses.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta & Dressing

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled Cook according to package instructions and allow to cool completely.
• 1 cup mayonnaise You can adjust the amount based on your preference for creaminess.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables & Optional Additions

• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 pieces hard-boiled eggs, chopped Optional.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the dressing.
• Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the dressing.
• Stir in the diced celery, red bell pepper, chopped red onion, shredded carrots, and chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using).
• Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Serving

• Serve chilled as a side dish to any meal, especially at summer barbecues or potlucks.

Notes

To store classic macaroni salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3 to 5 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Keyword Barbecue Side, Creamy Salad, Macaroni Salad, Pasta Salad, Picnic Recipe