Description
A classic creamy macaroni salad featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with crunchy celery, red onion, and grated carrots, all tossed in a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and quick family meals, offering a delicious balance of creamy and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, and grated carrots to the dressing. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Chill the salad: Cover the macaroni salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, consider adding chopped pickles or boiled eggs to the salad.
- Chilling the salad longer than an hour enhances the blend of flavors for a tastier dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
