Description
This creamy macaroni salad features elbow macaroni, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect side dish for summer gatherings. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it’s sure to be a hit at any picnic or barbecue!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup diced pickles or relish (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
- Add the elbow macaroni and stir occasionally. Cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Dice celery, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces.
- If using, chop pickles or relish into small pieces.
- In the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled macaroni and gently fold it in.
- Add the diced vegetables and thawed peas, folding them into the mixture.
- If using, mix in chopped pickles or relish and fresh parsley. Add shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or longer for better flavor).
- Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve in a large bowl or individual dishes.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for several hours or overnight.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You may need to refresh with a bit of mayonnaise or vinegar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes