Introduction
Macaroni Salad has always been a dish that reminds me of family gatherings, especially during summer BBQs. I vividly recall my aunt Lina Vexley making this dish for our annual picnic. The tangy dressing, paired with the crisp vegetables and the soft macaroni, was always a hit. As a child, I was mesmerized by how such a simple salad could be so packed with flavor. Lina always took the time to perfect her recipe, adding just the right balance of spices and fresh ingredients. It became a staple on our picnic tables, and even now, whenever I make it, it feels like a little piece of family history.
Macaroni Salad
Equipment
- Cooking Pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup mustard yellow or Dijon
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup black olives sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to mix well.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, and black olives. Stir everything together to combine.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Macaroni Salad
Macaroni Salad is a classic dish that comes together easily, making it perfect for summer BBQs, family picnics, or as a side for almost any meal. To begin, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and mustard. This will form the creamy dressing that will coat the pasta. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to season the dressing to your taste.
Once the macaroni has cooled, add it to the dressing and toss until well-coated. This ensures that every bite will be creamy and flavorful. Now it’s time to add the crunch and freshness—add in diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced black olives. These vegetables will add color and texture to your salad, making it visually appealing and more exciting to eat.
Mix everything together and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For the best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and create a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh elements.
This macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side to a BBQ or as a meal on its own. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and will quickly become a family favorite!
Conclusion
Macaroni Salad is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its creamy dressing, vibrant vegetables, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that can bring comfort and joy to any meal. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to serve at casual gatherings or as part of a more elaborate dinner. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or enjoying it at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Its creamy texture, crunch from fresh vegetables, and balanced flavors make it a dish you’ll make again and again.