Delicious Macaroni Salad Recipe
Are you ready to elevate your gatherings with a mouthwatering Macaroni Salad that’s sure to be the star of the show? Look no further! This easy-to-follow recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1X
- 2 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 stalks celery (finely chopped, approximately ½ cup)
- ¾ cup red or orange bell pepper (seeded and finely chopped)
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup red onion (finely diced)
2X
- 4 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 4 stalks celery (finely chopped, approximately 1 cup)
- 1 ½ cup red or orange bell pepper (seeded and finely chopped)
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup red onion (finely diced)
3X
- 6 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 6 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 3 teaspoon salt
- 6 stalks celery (finely chopped, approximately 1 ½ cup)
- 2 ¼ cup red or orange bell pepper (seeded and finely chopped)
- 1 ½ cup grated carrot
- 1 ½ cup red onion (finely diced)
Instructions
STEP 1: COOKING THE MACARONI
- Boil the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as you want it to hold its shape when mixed with the other ingredients.
STEP 2: PREPARING THE DRESSING
- While the macaroni is cooking, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, yellow mustard, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until the dressing is well-combined.
STEP 3: MIXING IT ALL TOGETHER
- Drain the cooked macaroni and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps maintain its texture.
- In a larger bowl, gently combine the macaroni with the prepared dressing, chopped celery, bell pepper, grated carrot, and diced red onion. Make sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
STEP 4: CHILLING THE SALAD
- To allow the flavors to meld, refrigerate the salad for 1-2 hours before serving. This resting period enhances the taste and texture of the dish.
Notes
- Thickening the Dressing: If your dressing seems thin initially, don’t worry. It will thicken as it chills with the pasta.
- Pasta Preference: Opt for dried pasta over fresh for the best results. It holds up well and can be served either chilled or at room temperature.
- Freshness Matters: While the salad stays good for a couple of days, it’s recommended to prepare it the day before or on the day of your event for maximum freshness.
- Seasoning: Using extra-salted water when cooking the pasta ensures well-seasoned noodles. Adjust the seasoning as needed when adding the dressing and other ingredients.
- Storage Tip: If storing the salad overnight, reserve some dressing to add just before serving for a creamier texture.