This macaroni salad is a fun, colorful dish that’s perfect for parties or picnics. It features tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing for a nice blend of flavors and textures!
Honestly, I could eat this salad every day. It’s quick to make, and the leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left, that is! 😄
I love serving this salad with grilled burgers or hot dogs. It adds a nice touch to any meal and is super easy to whip up. You’ll want to make this one again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This type of pasta is classic for macaroni salad but you can use other shapes like shells or rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well if you have dietary needs.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise gives creaminess, but plain yogurt or sour cream are great lighter alternatives. If you want a vegan option, you’ll find vegan mayo in stores that’s just as tasty!
Dijon Mustard: This mustard adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard will do the trick, but it’s a bit milder. For a spicy kick, try horseradish mustard.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings acidity; feel free to swap it for white or red wine vinegar. Lemon juice can also lend brightness to the dish!
Veggies: The celery, onion, and bell pepper add crunch and flavor. You can swap veggies based on your taste or what you have—cucumbers or carrots both work well!
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These add protein and texture. If you don’t eat eggs, simply leave them out or consider adding a can of beans for protein instead.
How Do I Cook Pasta for Macaroni Salad?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but there are a few tips to make sure it’s just right. Cooking it until al dente (firm to the bite) ensures that your pasta won’t turn mushy once it’s mixed with dressing and veggies.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the elbow macaroni.
- Check the package for cooking time and taste the pasta 1-2 minutes before the time is up to ensure it’s al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the macaroni, and run it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for the salad.
Delicious Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1/2 cup sweet pickles, diced (optional)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy macaroni salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. So, total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down completely. This helps keep your salad nice and fresh!
2. Making the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
3. Mixing It All Together:
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing bowl. Stir gently to combine the pasta with the dressing until it’s all coated. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Adding the Veggies:
Now it’s time to fold in the colorful diced veggies! Gently add the diced celery, red onion, bell pepper, and sweet pickles if you’re using them. Mix everything together carefully so you don’t break up the macaroni.
5. (Optional) Adding Eggs:
If you’re using hard-boiled eggs, gently fold in the chopped eggs now. This is an optional step, but it adds a yummy creaminess to your salad!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out and enjoy your delicious macaroni salad cold!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free elbow pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as gluten-free pasta often has different cooking times.
How Long Does Macaroni Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your macaroni salad can last up to 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle over time.
Can I Add Other Veggies or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your macaroni salad by adding ingredients such as diced carrots, peas, or even corn. You can also swap the sweet pickles for dill pickles if you prefer a tangier flavor!
How to Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
This salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just mix it up and refrigerate as usual, but consider omitting the diced vegetables until just before serving to keep them crunchy and fresh.
