Best Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a timeless dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. This delightful pasta salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and texture, making it a perfect addition to picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its creamy dressing, combined with crunchy vegetables and savory cheese, creates a dish that appeals to both children and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing a potluck dish or simply looking for a quick side to complement your meal, macaroni salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. In this article, we will explore the delightful macaroni salad recipe in detail, emphasizing its ingredients, preparation method, and variations to suit your taste.

Discover the joy of making a classic macaroni salad with our delightful recipe! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, this salad features creamy dressing, crisp vegetables, and savory cheese, making it a hit with everyone. Learn about key ingredients, preparation tips, and variations to customize it to your taste. Enjoy a dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! #MacaroniSalad #ClassicRecipe #PastaSalad #Foodie #DeliciousDishes #HealthyRecipes #PicnicFood #ComfortFood

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup diced celery

1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)

1/2 cup diced red onion

1 cup sweet pickle relish

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

Mix the Vegetables & Macaroni: Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Then, fold in the diced celery, bell peppers, red onion, sweet pickle relish, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add the chopped fresh parsley and give it a final stir. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve cold as a side dish or a light lunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8