Description
This Classic Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or summer gatherings. Featuring tender elbow macaroni tossed in a zesty dressing with crisp celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and pickles, this salad is accented by chopped hard-boiled eggs and garnished with fresh parsley. Easy to prepare and best served chilled, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped dill pickles or relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, pickles or relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without breaking the pasta or eggs.
- Chill Salad: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if using. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- This salad tastes best when chilled and can be made a day ahead for convenience.
- Optional additions like peas or diced ham can add extra texture and flavor.
