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+ servings
Macaroni Salad

Delicious Macaroni Salad That Beats Takeout Any Day

This delicious macaroni salad is a perfect blend of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing, evoking backyard barbecues and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni classic choice for macaroni salad
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise provides richness
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar adds tang
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard gives a hint of spice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar enhances flavors
  • ½ teaspoon salt essential seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper adds warmth
For the Crunch
  • ½ cup celery diced
  • ½ cup red bell pepper diced
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
For the Protein
  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs chopped
For the Freshness
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Macaroni Salad
  1. Fill a large pot with water, adding a pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender yet firm.
  2. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Transfer the cooled macaroni to a mixing bowl and pour the dressing over it. Toss gently until well coated.
  5. Fold in the diced celery, red bell pepper, and red onion, stirring gently.
  6. Carefully add the chopped hard-boiled eggs and fold them in gently.
  7. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the salad, folding it in for even distribution. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the macaroni salad to chill for enhanced flavors. Adjust seasoning after refrigeration as flavors can mellow.

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