Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad is a delicious and easy dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. This creamy, tangy pasta salad combines a balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite for many. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main dish, this macaroni salad is sure to please everyone at your table.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad because it is quick to prepare, refreshing, and satisfying. It uses simple ingredients that are often found in your kitchen and can be customized to suit your tastes. It is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Plus, it is a great way to enjoy pasta in a different form.

How to Make Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

Making Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad is simple and quick. Follow the steps below to create this tasty dish.

/ Ingredients :

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (Cooked until al dente)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (For creamy dressing)
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (Adds tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (For acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell pepper (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional) (Add for extra texture)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) (For presentation)

Directions

1. Preparation: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth.

3. Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and mix well.

4. Next, fold in the diced celery, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and frozen peas (if using).

5. Mix all the ingredients until everything is combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Chill the macaroni salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

How to Serve Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

Serve Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad chilled. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread.

How to Store Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. If it seems dry after a day in the fridge, add a bit more mayonnaise to refresh its creaminess before serving.

Tips to Make Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

• You can cook the macaroni a bit longer if you prefer it softer, but al dente is best for texture.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
• To make it healthier, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.

Variation

You can add diced hard-boiled eggs or shredded cooked chicken for added protein, making it a more filling dish. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

1. Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make macaroni salad a day ahead of time. Just keep it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
   You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise substitute for a lighter option.

3. Can I add meat to this salad?
   Absolutely! Cooked and diced chicken, ham, or even bacon can be great additions to the salad.

Ultimate Classic Macaroni Salad

A creamy and tangy macaroni salad that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings, combining a balance of textures and flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni Cooked until al dente

Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise For creamy dressing
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard Adds tanginess
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar For acidity
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Vegetables

• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell pepper red, yellow, or green
• 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas optional, add for extra texture
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and mix well.
• Fold in the diced celery, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and frozen peas (if using).
• Mix all the ingredients until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Chill the macaroni salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

You can cook the macaroni a bit longer if you prefer it softer, but al dente is best for texture. Feel free to add other vegetables like diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch. To make it healthier, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise. You can add diced hard-boiled eggs or shredded cooked chicken for added protein, or for a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Keyword Barbecue Side, Classic Salad, Macaroni Salad, Pasta Salad, Picnic Food