Description
Classic Macaroni Salad is a creamy and tangy side dish made with tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a rich, flavorful dressing, perfect for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- Optional: paprika for garnish
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add cooled macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, carrots, and red onion to the bowl.
- Toss until everything is well coated in the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Make ahead a day in advance for best flavor.
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg