why make this recipe
Macaroni salad is a classic dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. It’s easy to make, and everyone loves it! This recipe combines creamy mayonnaise with crunchy vegetables, making it both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover pasta. Making your own macaroni salad allows you to adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.
how to make Best Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise and dijon mustard.
- Add the cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and sweet pickle relish to the bowl.
- Mix until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
how to serve Best Macaroni Salad
Serve the macaroni salad as a side dish at your next gathering. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or on its own as a light meal. You can garnish with additional chopped vegetables or herbs for a fresh touch.
how to store Best Macaroni Salad
To store leftover macaroni salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving it again, as the ingredients may separate.
tips to make Best Macaroni Salad
- Make sure the macaroni cools completely before mixing it with the dressing to avoid a soggy salad.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or bacon for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard according to your taste preference.
variation
You can customize this macaroni salad by adding different vegetables like peas or carrots. For a healthier version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as shells or rotini.
2. Is macaroni salad gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free macaroni, then yes, the salad can be gluten-free.
3. Can I make macaroni salad in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes better when chilled for a few hours or overnight before serving.
Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup mayonnaise You can adjust this to taste.
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard Can be adjusted according to taste.
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper Any color bell pepper can be used.
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish Adjust according to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise and dijon mustard.
- Add the cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, red onion, and sweet pickle relish to the bowl.
- Mix until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.