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Creamy Macaroni Salad

Creamy Macaroni Salad
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Creamy Macaroni Salad is a classic, comforting side dish featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with a rich, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Crisp celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs bring freshness and texture, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners. This versatile recipe is easy to make, customizable, and tastes even better when prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups small elbow macaroni

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Add-ins

  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended, forming a creamy and tangy dressing base.
  3. Chop and Mix Vegetables: Finely chop celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. If using sweet pickle relish, add it now. Gently toss all chopped ingredients with the cooled macaroni.
  4. Combine Pasta and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the macaroni and vegetable mixture. Fold gently to evenly coat all ingredients without mashing the eggs or vegetables.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for the best taste.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just right to ensure a slight bite and avoid mushiness.
  • Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight for best flavor.
  • Use fresh, crisp celery and freshly chopped onions for optimal crunch and taste.
  • Season gradually—adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste as you mix.
  • Gently fold ingredients to keep eggs and vegetables intact and maintain visual appeal.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, picnic recipes, potluck sides, easy macaroni salad, classic macaroni salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-macaroni-salad/