Description
This creamy macaroni salad is the perfect side dish for summer picnics and BBQs. Made with tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful dressing, it offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Easy to prepare and customizable with optional add-ins, it’s a classic American salad that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Mix-Ins
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, chopped red bell pepper, shredded carrot, finely chopped red onion, sweet pickle relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs if using to the dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill and meld flavors: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend and the salad chill thoroughly.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika for color and added flavor if desired. Serve cold and enjoy your refreshing summer macaroni salad.
Notes
- Make the salad a day ahead for the best flavor as it allows the ingredients to meld.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayonnaise.
- Add diced ham, peas, or shredded cheddar cheese for additional texture and taste.
- This salad holds up well for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook (after boiling)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
