Description
Classic Macaroni Salad is a timeless American dish that elevates any gathering with its creamy, flavorful medley of pasta and vegetables. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or family dinners. The combination of elbow macaroni, fresh veggies like celery and bell pepper, and a tangy mayonnaise dressing creates a satisfying dish that appeals to all palates. With just 35 minutes of prep time, this versatile salad can be customized with your favorite add-ins such as pickles or hard-boiled eggs, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside grilled meats or at potlucks and watch it disappear!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 medium red onion (1 cup)
- 1 rib celery (1/3 cup)
- 1/2 green bell pepper (1/3 cup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add diced onion, celery, and bell pepper to the dressing; stir to combine.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with half of the dressing mixture. Toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, add remaining dressing to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg