Here’s a classic, creamy Macaroni Salad—simple, flavorful, and perfect for picnics or BBQs 🥗
Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
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2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
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¾ cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ cup celery, finely chopped
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½ cup red onion, finely diced
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½ cup carrot, grated
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2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Cook macaroni in well-salted water until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
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In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Add cooled macaroni, celery, onion, carrot, eggs, and herbs.
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Toss gently until well coated.
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Chill at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
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Taste and adjust seasoning.
Tips for Extra Flavor
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Add 1–2 tbsp pickle relish or chopped dill pickles
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Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
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Sprinkle with paprika before serving
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Add diced ham or tuna for a heartier salad
If you want, I can share:
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A Southern-style macaroni salad
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A Hawaiian version
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A no-mayo macaroni salad
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A vegan option