Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Mar 30, 2025

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Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish

Macaroni salad is a timeless classic, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. This recipe delivers a creamy, tangy, and flavorful macaroni salad that's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into the details!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields about 6 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni: Choose a good quality pasta for the best texture and taste.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand. For a lighter version, you can use a mixture of mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt.
• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish: Adds a delightful sweet and tangy crunch.
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard: Provides a zesty kick.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Balances the flavors and adds a bit of sharpness.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Counters the acidity of the vinegar and mustard.
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best!
• 1 cup chopped celery: Provides a nice texture and refreshing taste.
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion: Adds a bit of bite and color.
• 1/2 cup chopped hard-boiled eggs: Adds protein and richness. (Optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely. This is crucial for preventing a watery salad.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, and pepper until well combined and smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat all the macaroni evenly with the dressing.

4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld. This allows the salad to chill and the flavors to fully develop, creating a more harmonious taste. Serve cold and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad:

• Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy and unpleasant in the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will make a noticeable difference in the flavor.
• Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or mustard to your liking.
• Add other vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, carrots, or shredded cheese.
• Make it ahead: Macaroni salad tastes even better the next day, so making it ahead of time is a great option.

Variations:

• Bacon Macaroni Salad: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Macaroni Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Creamy Dill Macaroni Salad: Replace the celery seed with fresh dill for a refreshing twist.

This classic macaroni salad recipe is incredibly versatile and adaptable to different tastes and preferences. So get creative, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish! Remember to share your variations and experiences with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!