Traditional Macaroni Salad

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you're searching for a crowd-pleasing side dish that screams summer, look no further. This Traditional Macaroni Salad is a creamy, crunchy classic that's easy to make and perfect for picnics or barbecues.

Ingredients for Traditional Macaroni Salad

Elbow macaroni forms the base of this dish and provides that classic pasta salad texture. Mayonnaise is the creamy element that binds everything together. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note that balances the richness. Dijon mustard offers a subtle kick, cutting through the creaminess. A pinch of sugar enhances the flavors without making it sweet, while salt and freshly ground black pepper bring everything into harmony. Diced celery and red onion add crunch and a hint of sharpness. Green bell pepper contributes a fresh, peppery flavor. Chopped fresh parsley brightens up the dish with a touch of herbaceousness. Hard-boiled eggs introduce a bit of richness and texture, and sweet pickle relish provides a sweet and tangy contrast.

Tips & Tricks

  • Always taste and adjust the seasoning after the salad has chilled. Cold temperatures can dull flavors.
  • For a healthier twist, try substituting half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Rinse the onions under cold water if you prefer a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs. It's also fantastic alongside sandwiches or as part of a potluck spread. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a simple green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad the day before?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day.
How long does this salad keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it should last 3-4 days.
Can I freeze macaroni salad?
Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the pasta and dressing.

Traditional Macaroni Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain it well and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. You'll want it cool before mixing, so it doesn't melt the dressing.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. This is your dressing. It should be creamy and smooth with a slight tang and a hint of sweetness.

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl, along with the diced celery, red onion, green bell pepper, parsley, chopped eggs, and sweet pickle relish. Stir everything together gently until the macaroni and veggies are well coated in the dressing.

Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop, making the salad even tastier.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
  • A delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
  • Customizable with your favorite add-ins.
  • Perfect for making ahead and sharing.

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
2 tbsp sweet pickle relish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red onion, green bell pepper, parsley, hard-boiled eggs, and pickle relish to the dressing.
4. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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