Here’s a simple and classic Macaroni Salad recipe that’s creamy, tangy, and perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a side dish for any meal.
Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or a combination of mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional for color and crunch)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain completely.
2. Prepare the dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the vegetables and eggs:
- To the dressing, add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs (if using). Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Combine with pasta:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and stir to combine. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill the salad:
- Cover the macaroni salad and refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight, if possible) to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or additional mayo to loosen it up.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, dill, and a sprinkle of paprika for color, if desired.
Tips:
- You can customize your macaroni salad with additional ingredients like peas, carrots, or even pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a tangier salad, increase the vinegar or add a little lemon juice.
- For a creamy but lighter option, swap out half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Enjoy this Macaroni Salad as a refreshing and crowd-pleasing side dish at your next gathering or as a quick and easy meal!