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 Best Macaroni Salad Recipe


 

Preparation Time: 20 minutes | Chilling Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8-10

This classic macaroni salad is creamy, tangy, and filled with colourful veggies, making it the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. Its balance of texture and flavour makes it a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 400g elbow macaroni (about 4 cups)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Add-ins:

  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup sweet pickles, chopped (optional)
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)


Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni

  1. Boil the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing

  1. Mix the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad

  1. Add the veggies: To the large mixing bowl with the dressing, add the diced red onion, bell pepper, celery, grated carrot, and any optional add-ins like cucumber, pickles, or eggs. Toss to combine.

  2. Mix in the macaroni: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

4. Chill and Serve

  1. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow the flavours to meld and the salad to become perfectly chilled.

  2. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Chef’s Tips:

  • Make ahead: This salad is best made ahead of time to allow the flavours to blend. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Customise it: Feel free to swap out vegetables or add cooked bacon bits, shredded cheese, or even diced chicken for extra heartiness


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