Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms a simple pasta dish into a crowd-pleasing sensation! This Macaroni Salad by Kristin isn't just another side dish – it's a creamy, crunchy, flavor-packed masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're planning a summer barbecue, a potluck, or just craving a delicious comfort food, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that's both easy to make and impossible to resist.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, diced celery, diced bell pepper, and diced red onion. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, stir the salad and taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Cook your pasta al dente: The key to a great macaroni salad is perfectly cooked pasta. Be sure to set a timer and taste-test to avoid mushy noodles.
- Cool pasta completely: Rinsing with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming too soft when mixed with the dressing.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
- Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to add diced ham, shredded cheese, or chopped hard-boiled eggs to make the salad your own.
- Use fresh vegetables: Crisp, freshly diced vegetables add the perfect crunch and freshness to the salad.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Don't be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
