Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe
Introduction
This creamy macaroni salad is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables and a tangy, rich dressing. It’s a classic side dish that works wonderfully for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing meal addition any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1/3 cup relish
- 1 lb elbow pasta
- 1 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 tablespoons dill
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the elbow pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and allow it to cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, diced red onion, diced red bell pepper, diced celery, and relish. Toss them together with the cooled pasta.
- Step 3: In the same bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Stir in the dill.
- Step 4: Fold the dressing into the pasta and vegetable mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper, then toss again to combine.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. Chilling enhances the flavors and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery seeds or toasted nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing and add tang.
- Try adding some chopped hard-boiled eggs or cooked bacon bits for a heartier salad.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be added along with dill for a more complex flavor.
Storage
Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good stir and add a little extra mayonnaise or vinegar if it seems dry. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this macaroni salad in advance?
Yes, it actually benefits from resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.
What type of relish works best in this recipe?
A sweet dill relish is ideal, but you can use sweet or spicy relish depending on your taste preference.
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Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy macaroni salad is a classic, refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. It combines tender elbow pasta with a colorful mix of shredded carrots, red bell pepper, celery, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, relish, and fresh dill. Chilled until served, this salad offers a creamy texture balanced by crisp vegetables and a hint of zest.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 lb elbow pasta
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup red onion, diced
- 1/3 cup relish
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely, then set aside.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded carrots, diced red onion, diced red bell pepper, diced celery, and relish. Toss them together gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In the same large bowl or a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Stir in the chopped fresh dill thoroughly to infuse the dressing with flavor.
- Mix Salad: Fold the cooled pasta into the vegetable mixture, then pour the prepared dressing over it. Gently toss everything until the pasta and vegetables are fully coated with the creamy dressing.
- Season and Chill: Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the salad and toss again for even seasoning. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Notes
- Use mayonnaise of your choice — regular or light — depending on desired creaminess and calorie content.
- The salad tastes best after chilling for at least one hour; overnight refrigeration improves flavor.
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs or cooked bacon bits for additional protein and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of relish or vinegar according to your preferred tanginess.
- For a healthier twist, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy salad, pasta salad, picnic side dish, summer salad
