Macaroni Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Macaroni Salad is a crowd favorite because it’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s packed with flavor. The creamy dressing perfectly coats the pasta and vegetables, creating a satisfying and refreshing dish. It’s customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping, as the flavors only improve after chilling in the fridge for a few hours. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main, Macaroni Salad is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup celery, finely diced

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup sweet relish (optional, for added sweetness)

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta. Drain again and set aside.

2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, sweet relish (if using), and hard-boiled eggs (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

4. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 1-2 hours

• Total time: 20-30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: You can add diced cooked chicken, ham, or tuna to make the salad more filling and turn it into a main dish.

• Make it spicy: Add a bit of chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the salad a spicy kick.

• Use Greek yogurt: For a lighter version, swap out half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to make the dressing healthier while still creamy.

• Add more vegetables: Try adding peas, carrots, or even cucumbers for additional crunch and color.

• Make it vegan: Use vegan mayo and skip the eggs for a fully plant-based version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If it thickens in the fridge, you can stir in a small amount of milk or extra mayo to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make Macaroni Salad ahead of time?

Yes, Macaroni Salad is great for meal prepping! It’s best made ahead of time and chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any short pasta shape, such as rotini, penne, or shells. Just make sure it’s small enough to be easily mixed and eaten in one bite.

Can I make this salad without eggs?

Yes, you can make it without eggs. If you’re looking for extra protein, consider adding some diced chicken, ham, or tofu.

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft, rinse it with cold water after cooking, and make sure to let it cool completely before adding the dressing.

Can I add fruit to this salad?

Yes! Adding diced apples, grapes, or pineapples gives the salad a sweet and refreshing contrast to the creamy dressing.

Is Macaroni Salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check that your mayonnaise and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?

Yes! If you prefer, you can make the dressing with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a vinaigrette to keep it lighter or dairy-free.

Can I add pickles instead of relish?

Yes, chopped pickles work just as well if you prefer a more tangy flavor in your salad.

How do I prevent the salad from being too dry?

If the pasta absorbs too much dressing as it sits, you can add a little more mayo or a splash of vinegar to restore the creaminess.

Conclusion

Macaroni Salad is the ultimate comfort side dish, bringing together creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements in one delicious bite. It’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you prefer it classic or with a few fun twists, this salad is sure to be a hit every time. Make it ahead, serve it cold, and enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite!