Description
Classic Macaroni Salad is a quintessential summer dish that brings together creamy and crunchy textures in a delightful way. This easy-to-make salad bursts with vibrant colors from fresh vegetables and is perfect for any gathering, whether you’re hosting a barbecue, picnic, or family reunion. With its mild tanginess and rich flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s highly customizable—feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the dressing to your taste. Prepare it ahead of time for optimal flavor as it chills, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 ribs celery (finely diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (finely diced)
- ½ cup red onion (finely diced)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- While pasta cools, finely chop celery, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and eggs.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, dill pickle juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until well combined.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg