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Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad: Your Perfect Summer Side Dish

Classic Macaroni Salad is a must-try dish that brings back nostalgic comfort and is perfect for summer picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni can swap for cavatappi or rotini if desired
  • 1 small red onion soaked in cool water for 5 minutes
  • 2 stalks celery feel free to omit or replace with jicama
  • 1 large green bell pepper substitute with yellow or red peppers for a sweeter salad
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayo Duke’s recommended
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard try Dijon mustard for different flavor
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar apple cider vinegar can be used
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar reduce or omit based on preference
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic fresh minced garlic can also be used
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Add-Ins
  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs diced
  • 1 cup diced pickles or sweet relish
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp or chicken

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil 3 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix mayo, yellow mustard, white vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until blended.
  3. Add Fresh Veggies: Stir in diced red onion, celery, and green bell pepper, evenly distributing the mixture.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooled macaroni with half of the dressing and toss thoroughly.
  5. Chill to Meld Flavors: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Final Touches: Add remaining dressing to salad, toss, and adjust seasonings as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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