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Classic Macaroni Salad
A creamy macaroni salad with crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs—perfect for gatherings and picnics.
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Prep Time
15
minutes
mins
Cook Time
10
minutes
mins
Chill Time
5
minutes
mins
Total Time
30
minutes
mins
Course
Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine
American
Servings
8
cups
Calories
280
kcal
Equipment
Large Pot
Mixing Bowls
Colander
Spatula
Ingredients
1x
2x
3x
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:
280
kcal
Carbohydrates:
34
g
Protein:
6
g
Fat:
14
g
Saturated Fat:
2
g
Cholesterol:
15
mg
Sodium:
260
mg
Potassium:
180
mg
Fiber:
2
g
Sugar:
4
g
Vitamin A:
1800
IU
Vitamin C:
20
mg
Calcium:
30
mg
Iron:
1.5
mg
Keyword
Creamy, Macaroni Salad, Picnic
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