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The Ultimate Macaroni Salad Recipe: A Delicious Family Favorite

Macaroni Salad

A creamy, tangy macaroni salad with crisp vegetables and a perfectly balanced dressing. This picnic favorite is always a crowd-pleaser with its comforting flavors and satisfying textures!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  2. Make dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Combine: Add cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, red onion, eggs, and pickle relish to the dressing. Gently fold until evenly coated.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to allow flavors to blend.
  5. Serve: Stir well before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.

Notes

  • Pasta tip: Don’t overcook the macaroni – it should be firm to bite (al dente).
  • Creamier version: Add 2-3 tbsp more mayonnaise if desired.
  • Add-ins: Try diced ham, shredded cheese, or black olives for variation.
  • Storage: Keeps well refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

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