Classic Macaroni Salad
Why Make This Recipe
Classic Macaroni Salad is a beloved dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to many. It is simple to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a quick family meal. Its creamy texture and crunchy vegetables create a wonderful balance of flavors and colors, making it a favorite side dish. Additionally, this salad can easily be customized to suit your taste or use up leftover ingredients.
How to Make Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 ribs celery, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 hard boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box. Rinse the pasta in cold water and leave it to cool and drain well.
- While the pasta is draining and cooling, chop the veggies and the hard-boiled eggs.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled drained pasta, veggies, and eggs. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
- In a smaller bowl, mix the remaining ingredients for the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss it to combine.
- Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
How to Serve Classic Macaroni Salad
Serve Classic Macaroni Salad chilled, as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and sandwiches. For a decorative touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or extra diced vegetables.
How to Store Classic Macaroni Salad
Store any leftovers of Classic Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness. If the salad seems too dry after storing, you can add a little more mayonnaise before serving.
Tips to Make Classic Macaroni Salad
- To enhance the flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
- Feel free to mix in other ingredients such as peas, carrots, or diced pickles for added texture and taste.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to fit your personal preference. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar or pickle juice.
Variations
You can customize Classic Macaroni Salad by adding ingredients such as diced grilled chicken for protein, or substituting Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing option. You can also explore different types of pasta for a twist on the classic version.
FAQs
1. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta like shells, fusilli, or rotini if you prefer.
2. How long can I keep macaroni salad in the fridge?
Classic Macaroni Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.
3. Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance, and it will taste even better after the flavors meld together in the fridge.
Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni Cooked according to package instructions
- 4 ribs celery, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 hard boiled eggs, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box. Rinse the pasta in cold water and leave it to cool and drain well.
- While the pasta is draining and cooling, chop the veggies and the hard-boiled eggs.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled drained pasta, veggies, and eggs. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
- In a smaller bowl, mix the remaining ingredients for the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss it to combine.
- Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni Cooked according to package instructions
- 4 ribs celery, finely diced
- 1 each green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 each red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 each hard boiled eggs, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box. Rinse the pasta in cold water and leave it to cool and drain well.
- While the pasta is draining and cooling, chop the veggies and the hard-boiled eggs.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled drained pasta, veggies, and eggs. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
- In a smaller bowl, mix the remaining ingredients for the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss it to combine.
- Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
