Macaroni salad recipe. Family Favorite Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad recipe is a staple in our household, perfect for cookouts, picnics, and even as a late-night snack. Its tangy and slightly sweet dressing meets everyone’s expectations and brings out the best flavors. 

Ingredients for Macaroni Salad

– Elbow macaroni: These curved, hollow noodles are ideal for holding the dressing. You’ll need two cups of dry elbow macaroni, which is about eight ounces or half of a one-pound box.

– Fat-free mayonnaise: Opt for fat-free mayo for a lighter option. Regular mayonnaise or versions made with olive oil or avocado are also great alternatives.

– Sweet pickle relish: Two tablespoons of this sweet-tangy relish add a deli-like flavor.

– Sugar: A pinch of sugar gives the salad its light sweetness.

– Chopped vegetables: Celery, carrot, and onion provide crunch and savory notes.

– Hard-boiled egg: One chopped hard-boiled egg is the perfect garnish.

– Seasonings: Salt, pepper, ground mustard, and a dash of paprika balance the salad’s flavors.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Test a piece of macaroni a few minutes before the end of the cooking time to ensure it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until cool to the touch. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet relish, sugar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. For extra saucy salads, consider making a double batch of dressing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped celery, carrot, and onion to the macaroni and stir. Then, add the dressing and mix thoroughly to coat the macaroni and vegetables.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle chopped hard-boiled egg and a generous dash of paprika on top. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for later.

Recipe Variations

– Pasta Shapes: While elbow macaroni is traditional, try rotini, small shells, ditalini, bow ties (farfalle), or mini penne.

– Add More Eggs: Mix in four or five chopped hard-boiled eggs instead of just one for garnish.

– Extra Veggies: Include diced red or green peppers, cucumbers, tiny broccoli florets, or halved cherry tomatoes.

– Reduce Sugar: Omit or reduce the sugar for a less sweet salad.

– Spicy Kick: Add spicy brown or Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Use hot Hungarian paprika instead of regular paprika.

– Yogurt or Sour Cream: Replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for added tang.

How Long Does Macaroni Salad Last?

Store leftover macaroni salad in a sealed container in the fridge. It will maintain its best texture and flavor for three to five days.

Can You Make Macaroni Salad Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for preparing in advance. Store the prepared salad in the fridge and stir well before serving. For a fresher taste, prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them on the day of serving. Keep diced veggies in the fridge for up to a week, and cooked pasta and hard-boiled eggs for up to five days.

Should You Rinse Macaroni in Cold Water?

Yes, rinsing macaroni in cold water stops the cooking process, ensuring the noodles remain al dente and prevents them from becoming mushy. It also cools the pasta to the right temperature for adding the dressing and removes excess starch, resulting in a smoother texture.

How to Avoid Dry Macaroni Salad?

If your salad dries out, simply stir in a little extra mayonnaise before serving. Adding a splash of dill or sweet pickle juice can also help to moisten the salad and enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Macaroni salad is a classic side dish for burgers, hot dogs, grilled sausages, fried chicken, and sloppy joes. It’s also perfect for potlucks, community suppers, or luncheon parties. This cold side pairs well with cold cuts and sandwiches, too.

Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

– 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

– 1 cup fat-free mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish

– 2 teaspoons sugar

– 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/8 teaspoon pepper

– 1/2 cup chopped celery

– 1/3 cup chopped carrot

– 1/4 cup chopped onion

– 1 hard-boiled large egg, chopped

– Dash of paprika

Directions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water until cool. 

2. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

3. In a large bowl, mix the macaroni, celery, carrot, and onion. Add the dressing and toss gently to coat.

4. Refrigerate until serving. Garnish with chopped egg and paprika.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):

– 115 calories

– 2g fat (0g saturated fat)

– 27mg cholesterol

– 362mg sodium

– 21g carbohydrates (6g sugars, 2g fiber)

– 4g protein

Enjoy this classic macaroni salad at your next gathering or as a comforting meal at home!

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