Macaroni Salad Recipe

This creamy Macaroni Salad recipe is a perfect side dish for any occasion, from summer barbecues to family gatherings. Made with tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and carrots, and a tangy, creamy dressing, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The homemade dressing features mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and a touch of apple cider vinegar, giving it the perfect balance of creamy and tangy. Whether you’re looking for a classic macaroni salad or a dish that can be made ahead of time, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it chilled for the best taste, and enjoy the delicious combination of textures and flavors! Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer parties.

Ingredients

Salad:

• 1 lb. macaroni
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• ½ green bell pepper and ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup carrots, julienned
• ⅓ cup red onion, diced

Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise (Hellman’s recommended)
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons honey (or substitute with sugar)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or substitute with white or red wine vinegar)
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or substitute with yellow mustard)
• 3 tablespoons sweet relish
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnishes:

• Paprika
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing by combining all dressing ingredients in a bowl. Chill in the refrigerator.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes (check package directions for exact time).
3. While the pasta is cooking, dice the celery, bell peppers, carrots, and red onion.
4. Once the macaroni is done, drain it and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear and cold. Drain thoroughly, using a dry dish towel to absorb any excess water.
5. In a large bowl, combine the pasta and chilled dressing. Stir gently with a silicone spatula until evenly coated.
6. Add the prepared vegetables and stir until everything is well mixed.
7. Transfer the salad to a clean serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours (or up to overnight). This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing.
8. Garnish with green onions and a sprinkle of paprika before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni salad is a classic, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and al dente pasta creates a balanced texture that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make, customizable, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy days and gatherings.

Tips

• Make Ahead: This macaroni salad tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours, or even overnight. The pasta absorbs more of the dressing, enhancing the flavor.
• Use Fresh Veggies: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, crisp vegetables. The celery and bell peppers provide crunch, while the carrots and onions add sweetness and sharpness.
• Adjust the Dressing: If you like a creamier or tangier salad, you can adjust the amounts of mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, and mustard to suit your taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like cucumber, peas, or cherry tomatoes.
• Dressing Substitutes: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard works fine. You can also replace the sweet relish with dill relish for a sharper flavor.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives.

FAQs

Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this salad gets better the longer it sits, as the pasta absorbs the dressing. Make it a day in advance for maximum flavor.

How long can I store macaroni salad?
Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or holiday gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, or a vegetable platter. Try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crispy potato wedges for a complete meal.