Classic Macaroni Salad with Creamy Mayo Dressing
Classic Macaroni Salad with Creamy Mayo Dressing is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any family gathering. This salad is loved for its creamy texture and colorful ingredients. It brings a comforting taste that many people remember from childhood. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Classic Macaroni Salad is a fun and rewarding experience. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends. The creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables make it not only tasty but also satisfying. Plus, you can customize it to fit your taste! Whether you serve it at a barbecue or as a side dish, it’s sure to impress.
How to Make Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (red or green)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup diced pickles or relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Directions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined to form the creamy dressing.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl containing the dressing. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Add the diced celery, red onion, bell pepper, shredded carrot, fresh parsley, diced pickles or relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the bowl.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed and coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the macaroni salad a final stir and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Serve Classic Macaroni Salad
Serve Classic Macaroni Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra pepper for a nice touch. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish.
How to Store Classic Macaroni Salad
Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days. Make sure to stir it again before serving as the flavors may settle.
Tips to Make Classic Macaroni Salad
- For a creamier salad, feel free to add a bit more mayonnaise.
- You can use different vegetables based on what you like or have on hand, such as peas or corn.
- Adding some diced bacon can give it a nice smoky flavor.
Variation
You can make a lighter version by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This adds a tangy flavor and reduces calories. You can also mix in some diced avocado for creaminess.
FAQs
How long can I keep macaroni salad in the fridge?
You can keep macaroni salad in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes! Macaroni salad tastes even better after it sits for a while. You can make it a day in advance to let the flavors meld together.
What can I add to macaroni salad for extra crunch?
You can add ingredients like chopped bell peppers, crunchy pickles, or even nuts to give your macaroni salad an extra crunch.
Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise For a creamier salad, feel free to add a bit more.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (red or green)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup diced pickles or relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined to form the creamy dressing.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl containing the dressing. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Add the diced celery, red onion, bell pepper, shredded carrot, fresh parsley, diced pickles or relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the bowl.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed and coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the macaroni salad a final stir and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
