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Creamy Macaroni Salad

Creamy Macaroni Salad
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Creamy Macaroni Salad is a classic, comforting side dish combining tender elbow macaroni with crisp vegetables and hard-boiled eggs, all enveloped in a smooth, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, this make-ahead salad delivers fresh, creamy, and satisfying flavors that deepen when chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Dressing

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

Vegetables & Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickles or relish
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta quickly.
  2. Prep the Vegetables and Eggs: While the pasta cooks, finely chop celery, red onion, and herbs. Hard boil eggs by simmering them in water for about 10 minutes, then cool, peel, and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold the drained macaroni, chopped vegetables, pickles or relish, and eggs into the dressing. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Give a quick stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and ensure better dressing absorption.
  • Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow flavors to blend well.
  • Add mayonnaise gradually to control creaminess and avoid overpowering the salad.
  • Use fresh vegetables such as crisp celery and freshly chopped onions for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity to balance the richness perfectly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Macaroni Salad, picnic side dish, barbecue salad, classic macaroni salad, easy pasta salad

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