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Best Macaroni Salad

A classic macaroni salad that’s creamy, colorful, and perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or dill

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard; whisk until smooth.
  3. Add vegetables: Fold in diced celery, bell pepper, red onion, and thawed peas with the dressing.
  4. Combine pasta and vegetables: Gently fold in the cooled macaroni without mashing it.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Optional additions: Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and fresh herbs if desired.
  7. Chill the salad: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavor.

Notes

Let the salad sit for a few hours or overnight for best flavor. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, pasta salad, picnic recipe, side dish