Description
This Classic Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and comforting side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. Made with tender elbow macaroni, a crisp mix of vegetables, and a flavorful homemade dressing, it’s easy to prepare and best served chilled to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced
- 1 rib celery, finely diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 3 cups of elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool running water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 2 teaspoons white sugar, 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder until smooth and well combined.
- Mix pasta and dressing: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with half of the dressing mixture. Toss gently to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated.
- Chill to meld flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and the salad to chill properly.
- Add vegetables and remaining dressing: Before serving, fold in the finely diced red onion, celery, and green bell pepper along with the remaining dressing. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and toss gently.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the macaroni is rinsed thoroughly under cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
- Adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preference for more tanginess or sweetness.
- This salad benefits from resting overnight for even better flavor melding.
- Keep refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and food safety.
- You can add chopped hard-boiled eggs or cooked bacon for a richer variation.
