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Classic Creamy Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad

classic creamy old fashioned macaroni salad - featured image
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A nostalgic, creamy, and tangy macaroni salad with crunchy veggies and a classic dressing, perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) dried elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup (240ml) full-fat mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 large celery stalk, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • Optional: diced bell pepper
  • Optional: shredded carrot

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts or 3.8 liters). Add 2 cups (200g) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Avoid overcooking to keep pasta firm.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Finely dice 1 large celery stalk and 1/4 cup red onion. Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs into small pieces. Prepare optional add-ins if using.
  5. Add the chopped veggies and eggs to the pasta bowl. Pour the dressing over and gently fold using a spatula or spoon until evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the pasta or eggs.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to let flavors meld and chill properly.
  7. Before serving, gently stir the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Optionally add a splash more vinegar or a tablespoon of mayonnaise if the salad seems dry.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Chop veggies finely for crunch. Chill salad for at least 1 hour to meld flavors. Stir gently to avoid crushing eggs. Optional add-ins like sweet pickle relish or diced bell peppers add extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, old fashioned macaroni salad, picnic side dish, summer salad, easy macaroni salad, homemade macaroni salad

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/classic-creamy-old-fashioned-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish/