Best macaroni salad –Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a comforting meal at home: The Best Macaroni Salad. This classic dish combines creamy flavors with a crunchy texture, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Macaroni Salad Overview
Before we dive into the ingredients and instructions, let’s take a moment to appreciate this amazing dish. It’s not only tasty but also quite versatile. You can personalize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious macaroni salad:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 cup diced bell pepper (mix of colors for extra vibrancy)
- 1 cup sweet pickles, chopped, or relish
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:
- Firstly, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and stir to coat thoroughly with the dressing.
- Next, fold in the chopped celery, red onion, bell peppers, sweet pickles, and hard-boiled eggs (if using). Ensure everything is well mixed together.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as you prefer.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy its delightful taste. This macaroni salad is perfect on its own or as a side dish for barbecues. Enjoy your meal!