Description
Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional add-ins: diced ham, boiled eggs, shredded cheese
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and toss until the macaroni is well coated.
- Add diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, celery, and fresh parsley to the macaroni mixture. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- If desired, add optional ingredients like diced ham, boiled eggs, or shredded cheese.
- Refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the macaroni salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.
Notes
This classic Macaroni Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing makes it a staple for summer gatherings. Customize it with your favorite add-ins or enjoy it as is. Make ahead for best flavor, and refrigerate to let the ingredients meld together. A timeless side dish that complements any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Small Batch Macaroni Salad