Macaroni salad is a creamy, crunchy side made with elbow macaroni, celery, red pepper, carrots and red onion in a tangy mayonnaise and Dijon dressing. Cook and cool the pasta, toss everything together and chill for at least an hour so the flavours meld. It is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Best Macaroni Salad

For the Salad:

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup chopped red onion
1 cup diced cucumber (optional)
1 cup diced ham or shredded chicken (optional)

For the Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes), until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooling, dice the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and cucumber.
Shred the carrots and set all the vegetables aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled macaroni with the diced vegetables.
If using ham or chicken, add it to the bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavours meld.
Before serving, give the salad a final stir and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for extra colour.

Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad

Choose the Right Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but small shells or rotini work well too.
Balance the Flavours: Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or seasoning in the dressing to suit your taste.
Add Texture: Mix in ingredients like chopped pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or shredded cheese for extra texture.
Serve Cold: For the best flavour, ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving.

Now you know how to make the best macaroni salad recipe! With its creamy dressing and vibrant mix of ingredients, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try this recipe today and share your variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should macaroni salad chill before serving?

Cover it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavours can meld. Give it a final stir just before you serve.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes. Small shells or rotini work well in place of elbow macaroni.

What can I add for extra texture?

Chopped pickles, hard-boiled eggs or shredded cheese all add bite. Diced ham or shredded chicken make it more filling.

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The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe