Macaroni Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Macaroni Salad is the ideal combination of creamy, tangy, and savory. The pasta is perfectly coated in a smooth dressing, and the vegetables and eggs add a delightful crunch and richness. It’s a simple recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients, whether that’s adding extra veggies, swapping out the mayo for a lighter dressing, or making it spicy with a dash of hot sauce. Whether served as a side or a main, this dish is always a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup dill pickles or sweet pickles, chopped

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

• 1/4 cup bell peppers (optional, for extra color)

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.

2. Make the Dressing:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Prepare the Veggies and Eggs:
   While the pasta is cooling, chop the celery, red onion, pickles, and bell peppers (if using). Also, chop the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces.

4. Combine the Salad:
   Once the pasta is cool, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Stir in the chopped vegetables and eggs, mixing gently to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.

5. Chill and Serve:
   For the best flavor, cover the macaroni salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes (for pasta)

• Chilling time: 1-2 hours (for best flavor)

Variations

• Vegan Macaroni Salad: Use vegan mayo and skip the hard-boiled eggs for a plant-based version.

• Creamy Greek Yogurt Version: Swap half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier dressing.

• Spicy Macaroni Salad: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce, sriracha, or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or even tuna for a more substantial meal.

• Herbed Macaroni Salad: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the dressing for extra flavor.

• Fruit Twist: For a sweeter version, try adding some diced apples, grapes, or raisins to the salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Macaroni Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dish.

• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat macaroni salad, as it’s best served cold. If it seems too dry after storage, you can stir in a little more mayo or a splash of vinegar to refresh it.

FAQs

Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?

Yes, macaroni salad actually tastes better the longer it sits, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it up to 1-2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook it al dente and let it cool before mixing with the dressing.

Can I make this macaroni salad without mayo?

Yes! You can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice for a lighter version.

Can I add meat to this salad?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or even tuna to make it a more filling meal. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the pasta and vegetables.

Can I add fruit to macaroni salad?

Yes! Fruit like apples, grapes, or pineapple can add a sweet contrast to the creamy salad. Just chop them small and fold them in gently.

How do I make the macaroni salad creamier?

To make the salad creamier, you can add more mayo or Greek yogurt, or use a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream. A splash of lemon juice can also help balance the richness and add creaminess.

What can I use instead of vinegar in the dressing?

If you don’t have vinegar, lemon juice can be a great substitute, providing a tangy acidity that balances the richness of the mayo. You can also use pickle juice for an added flavor boost.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

Macaroni salad is not recommended for freezing, as the mayo or dressing may separate when thawed, resulting in a less-than-ideal texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Conclusion

Macaroni Salad is a classic, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to make, delicious, and can easily be customized to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or just enjoying it as a comforting side, this macaroni salad is sure to please. The creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta come together in a dish that’s satisfying and full of flavor.