Description
Creamy Macaroni Salad is a classic side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a simple family meal. This recipe combines tender macaroni with a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables for a delightful dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni Salad:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup diced celery
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, carrot, red onion, and chopped eggs if using. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar or add a splash of pickle juice.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about ¾ cup
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
