Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad
This Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad is a nostalgic dish that brings together simple ingredients for a burst of flavor that's both satisfying and refreshing. Growing up, this salad graced our family gatherings and summer picnics, becoming a beloved staple for both kids and adults alike. With the perfect blend of creamy mayonnaise, crunchy veggies, and a hint of tang, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you're serving it at a barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a light snack, this macaroni salad always hits the spot!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1 cup (none)
vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
mustard
1 tablespoon (none)
sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
elbow macaroni
1/2 lb (cooked and drained)
celery
1 cup (sliced)
green bell pepper
1/2 cup (chopped)
red bell pepper
1/2 cup (chopped)
green onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2
Next, add the cooked and drained macaroni to the dressing and mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated.
3
Fold in the sliced celery, chopped green bell pepper, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped green onion, mixing gently to combine all ingredients.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your delicious Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad?
It is a nostalgic, satisfying dish featuring elbow macaroni, a creamy mayonnaise dressing, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for summer picnics.
Is this macaroni salad recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is specifically categorized as a kid-friendly dish due to its mild, creamy flavor and simple ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
You should refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld properly.
What type of pasta is best for this salad?
Elbow macaroni is the traditional and recommended choice for this classic recipe.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing consists of mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
What vegetables are included in this salad?
The salad includes sliced celery, chopped green bell peppers, chopped red bell peppers, and chopped green onions.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it at least an hour in advance is recommended, and it can be stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Is there sugar in this macaroni salad?
Yes, the recipe calls for one teaspoon of sugar to help balance the tanginess of the vinegar and mustard.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Absolutely. Before serving, you should stir the salad and adjust the salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your preference.
What gives the salad its crunch?
The crunch comes from the fresh celery and bell peppers folded into the pasta.
Do I need to cook the macaroni before mixing?
Yes, the macaroni should be cooked and drained before being added to the dressing.
What occasions is this salad good for?
It is ideal for family gatherings, summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light snack.
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
Yes, while the recipe uses red and green, you can use any color of bell pepper you prefer.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of mayonnaise for the dressing base.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is described as an incredibly easy recipe that involves simple whisking and folding of ingredients.
What kind of mustard should I use?
The recipe specifies standard mustard, though you can use yellow or Dijon depending on your taste.
How much macaroni do I need?
The recipe uses 1/2 lb of elbow macaroni.
Can I add protein to this salad?
While not in the base recipe, many people enjoy adding chopped ham, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs to this style of salad.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
How much celery is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of sliced celery.
Is this salad refreshing?
Yes, it is described as a refreshing dish, especially when served cold.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
The recipe lists general vinegar; white vinegar or apple cider vinegar typically work best.
How many green onions should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chopped green onions.
Should I cover the salad while it's in the fridge?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid before refrigerating.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
You can use a light mayonnaise or a vegan substitute, though the flavor and creaminess may vary.
Is this a side dish or a main?
It is typically served as a side dish, particularly with grilled meats or sandwiches.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple for larger gatherings.
How do I ensure the macaroni is well coated?
Mix the cooked macaroni into the dressing thoroughly before adding the vegetables to ensure even coverage.