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Classic Creamy American Macaroni Salad

Classic Creamy American Macaroni Salad That Steals the Show

This Classic Creamy American Macaroni Salad combines savory richness and refreshing crunch, making it a perfect summer side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Cooked al dente
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup diced celery Can substitute with cucumber
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper Yellow bell pepper can be swapped
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped dill pickle Sweet pickles can lend a sweeter profile
For the Protein
  • 3 pieces hard-boiled eggs Optional for a vegetarian version
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Transfer the cooled macaroni into the bowl with the dressing and gently fold to coat evenly.
  4. Stir in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, dill pickle, and hard-boiled eggs gently until distributed.
  5. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, gently stir the salad and garnish with parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, chill for a day in advance and adjust seasonings to your taste before serving.

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