Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe – Healthy Creamy, Quick and Easy

Looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings? This classic macaroni salad is the answer! It’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a refreshing addition to any meal. With a hint of sweetness and a burst of flavor, this salad will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This recipe is all about balance. The tender macaroni is combined with crunchy celery, sweet bell peppers, and red onions, all tossed in a creamy dressing that brings everything together. Want to spice it up? Feel free to add some diced pickles or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick.

Vibrant Ingredients in Macaroni Salad

This classic macaroni salad shines with its colorful additions. Bright red bell peppers and crisp celery bring a crunch, while diced red onions contribute a subtle sharpness. These ingredients not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

The creamy dressing ties it all together, enveloping each piece of elbow macaroni in a rich coating that makes the salad irresistible. This combination of textures and tastes creates a balanced dish that everyone will enjoy.

Perfectly Cooked Elbow Macaroni

The foundation of any great macaroni salad is the pasta. Using elbow macaroni is traditional, and cooking it to the right level of doneness is crucial. The pasta should be cooked al dente, striking a balance between tender and firm, ensuring it holds up well when mixed with the dressing and other ingredients.

After cooking, rinsing the macaroni under cold water halts the cooking process, keeping the pasta firm and preventing it from becoming mushy. This step is vital in achieving the perfect texture for your salad.

The Creamy Dressing

A standout feature of this macaroni salad is its creamy dressing. Made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, it strikes a delightful balance of tanginess and richness. The addition of a little sugar gives it a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Whisking these ingredients together creates a smooth and glossy dressing that clings beautifully to the pasta and vegetables. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Chilling for Flavor

Allowing the macaroni salad to chill for at least an hour before serving is a key step. This resting period lets the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive taste. The chilling also enhances the refreshing qualities of the salad, making it an ideal dish for warm weather gatherings.

Covering the salad and placing it in the refrigerator not only improves the flavor but also ensures that it stays cool and inviting when served. Guests will appreciate the crisp, refreshing taste on a hot day.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Once the macaroni salad is ready to serve, garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color. This small touch elevates the presentation, making it more visually appealing, especially when served on a picnic table surrounded by summer blooms.

This salad is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any family gathering, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that complements a variety of main dishes. Its cheerful appearance and delicious taste make it a must-have item at any gathering.

Why Macaroni Salad is a Classic

Macaroni salad has been a staple at gatherings for decades. Its versatility allows for various additions, such as diced pickles or a sprinkle of paprika, catering to different tastes and preferences.

This dish is not just a side; it often becomes the highlight of the spread, inviting guests to enjoy its creamy goodness. Whether enjoyed outdoors in the summer sun or at a cozy indoor gathering, this classic dish continues to please palates, making it a timeless favorite.

Delicious Macaroni Salad for Any Occasion

This macaroni salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The creamy dressing complements the al dente pasta and crisp vegetables, creating a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, and red onion to the dressing. Stir until everything is well-coated.
4. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g