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–+ servings
macaroni salad

Classic Macaroni Salad

A creamy macaroni salad with crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs—perfect for gatherings and picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 cups
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Colander
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Salad Base

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1/2 cup celery diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup carrots shredded

Dressing

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Instructions
 

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • In a large bowl, combine cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, onion, and carrots.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  • Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Customize by adding diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or a pinch of paprika. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 6gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 260mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword Creamy, Macaroni Salad, Picnic
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