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Classic Creamy Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Version

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A comforting and nostalgic macaroni salad with a creamy mayo-based dressing, crisp veggies, and a perfect bite-sized pasta texture. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon chopped pickles or a dash of pickle juice

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
  2. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon sugar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Finely dice 2 celery stalks, chop 1/4 cup red onion, and chop 2 hard-boiled eggs.
  5. Add the cooled macaroni, celery, onion, and eggs to the dressing. Gently fold until evenly coated, being careful not to break up the eggs too much.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired. Optionally add chopped pickles or pickle juice.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 2-3 hours, to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente and rinse under cold water to prevent mushiness. Chill salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Adjust seasoning after mixing. Optional add-ins include pickles, cayenne pepper, or shredded cheese for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, old fashioned macaroni salad, picnic side dish, easy macaroni salad, classic pasta salad

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/classic-creamy-old-fashioned-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-version/