This is my perfect macaroni salad. No eggs, no weird stuff like olives, just classic and very, very creamy.
The classic creamy macaroni salad is a staple in many households, especially during summer barbecues, family gatherings, and potlucks. This versatile dish is loved for its rich, creamy texture and the delightful crunch of fresh vegetables. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly customizable, making it a favorite among cooks and food enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore a comprehensive recipe for making the best classic creamy macaroni salad, along with tips, variations, and frequently asked questions to ensure your salad is always a hit.
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Ingredients:
For the Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Uncooked elbow macaroni | 3 cups |
| Celery, diced | 1 cup |
| Carrots, peeled and shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Green bell pepper, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Red onion, diced | 1/4 cup |
For the Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 1/2 cups |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet relish | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow mustard | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
Prepare the Macaroni
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice and Shred: While the macaroni is cooking, dice the celery, green bell pepper, and red onion. Peel and shred the carrots. Combine all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, sweet relish, and yellow mustard until smooth and well combined.
- Season: Season the dressing with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad
- Mix Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the diced vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top.
- Combine: Gently toss everything together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
- Garnish (Optional): Before serving, you can garnish the macaroni salad with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of paprika for color.
- Enjoy: Serve the macaroni salad chilled. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread.
