Zesty Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, making it a timeless favorite for picnics and potlucks. This recipe adds a zesty twist that brightens every bite, inviting you to savor it during any season.
Elbow macaroni serves as the backbone of this salad, providing a chewy base that soaks up all the flavors. Mayonnaise brings creamy richness, while Dijon mustard adds a subtle spiciness. The tang of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice cuts through the richness, and a touch of sugar balances the tartness. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the overall flavor, while diced celery and red bell pepper contribute a satisfying crunch. Red onion and pickles add a tangy, savory bite, complemented by the freshness of parsley. Finally, a sprinkle of paprika gives a gentle warmth and a dash of color.
This salad shines as a side dish for grilled meats, such as chicken or burgers. It's also fantastic alongside barbecued ribs or as part of a picnic spread with sandwiches and fresh fruit.
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth dressing. Make sure everything is well combined, as this will coat the macaroni evenly.
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing, then toss in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, pickles, and parsley. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure the dressing coats everything well.
Sprinkle the top with paprika and fold it in gently to distribute the spice without breaking the macaroni. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once chilled, give it a final stir before serving to ensure every bite is flavorful and refreshing.
Share