When it comes to classic side dishes, Macaroni Salad is a timeless favorite. This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a variety of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for any meal, it’s a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to please.
Macaroni Salad
Why This Macaroni Salad Is the Best
Creamy and Tangy Dressing: The mayonnaise-based dressing is perfectly balanced with a touch of vinegar and mustard, creating a creamy and tangy flavor that coats every bite of pasta.
Fresh and Crunchy Vegetables: The addition of diced red bell pepper, onion, and celery adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to the salad.
Easy to Make: This salad is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings and meal prep.
Ingredient Notes:
Dressing:
Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and richness as the base of the dressing.
Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and balances the richness of the mayo with a lighter texture.
Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
Macaroni Salad:
Dry elbow macaroni: The base of the salad, offering a chewy, tender texture.
Steamed or hard-boiled eggs: Add protein and richness to the salad.
Red bell pepper and celery: Provide crunch and freshness.
Red onion: Adds sharpness and a bit of spice to the flavor.
Carrots: Contribute color and sweetness for balance.
Serving Suggestions
Chilled and Fresh: Macaroni salad is best enjoyed chilled. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
With Grilled Meats: Pair this salad with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or burgers for a complete and satisfying meal.
For Picnics and Barbecues: This dish is a staple at picnics and barbecues. It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Perfect Macaroni Salad
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least a couple of hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes the salad extra refreshing.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your preferences.
A Must Try
There’s nothing quite like the classic taste of Macaroni Salad. This recipe is the perfect way to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special. Creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Hellmann's / Best Foods Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoon dijon mustard ** then more to taste (I like about 4 teaspoon)
- 2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Macaroni Salad:
- 8 oz dry elbow macaroni
- 2 steamed or boiled eggs peeled and chopped
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup matchstick carrots chopped
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 - 2 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions (Add about 1/2 tablespoon of salt in the water).
- Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water until fully cooled. Let it drain thoroughly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mustard, and honey.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste (start with about 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, then adjust after mixing the dressing with the pasta).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained macaroni, eggs, bell pepper, carrots, celery, and onion (for extra color, set aside some veggies to sprinkle on top).
- Pour the dressing over the salad, add parsley, and toss everything until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 day.
Notes
Pin this delicious recipe on Pinterest to save and share with your foodie friends!
Macaroni Salad