Classic Macaroni Salad is a timeless dish that brings together tender macaroni pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing for a delicious and satisfying side. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues, this salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, with the dressing providing just the right amount of tang and sweetness. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this dish can be tailored to suit your preferences with the addition of your favorite ingredients. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, Classic Macaroni Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red onion, red bell pepper, dill pickles, and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve chilled.
Enjoy your Classic Macaroni Salad as a delicious and versatile side dish that adds a touch of nostalgia and flavor to any meal, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a comforting addition to your dining table.
