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+ servings
macaroni salad

Classic Macaroni Salad

A creamy, colorful macaroni salad filled with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, created by Lina Vexley.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper chopped
  • 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives sliced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow peppers, and black olives.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  • Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Customize with diced ham, shredded carrots, or boiled eggs for extra flavor. Best served chilled on warm days.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 7gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 290mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 520IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.3mg
Keyword Macaroni Salad, Pasta Salad, Summer
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