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Macaroni Salad A vibrant overhead view of a delicious macaroni salad filled with colorful diced vegetables, perfectly mixed and ready to serve in a large bowl.

Macaroni Salad

A classic, creamy Macaroni Salad with a subtle sweetness, perfect for any potluck or summer BBQ.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 332
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 hard-boiled eggs peeled and chopped
  • ½ red bell pepper diced
  • ½ red onion diced
  • 2 ribs celery chopped
  • 8 oz. macaroni uncooked, any short pasta works
Dressing:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise or use light mayo for a healthier option
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for a mild tangy flavor
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish for a touch of sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar adds acidity
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar adjust to taste for sweetness
  • ½ teaspoon salt for seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked for best flavor

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the macaroni and cook until tender. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool.
    Strained cooked macaroni in a colander, ready to be mixed with fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing for a perfect salad
  2. While the macaroni is cooking, dice the hard-boiled eggs, bell pepper, onion, and celery.
    Chopped red onions, tomatoes, and other fresh vegetables are added to a bowl of macaroni, bringing color and texture to the dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
    A close-up shot of creamy dressing ingredients in a bowl, with mustard, pickles, and seasonings ready to be mixed into a flavorful dressing
  4. Combine the cooled macaroni, eggs, bell pepper, onion, and celery in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and stir until everything is evenly coated.
    Pouring a creamy dressing over a fresh macaroni salad, ensuring every bite will be coated with a flavorful mixture
  5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This macaroni salad strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and creaminess. It’s versatile, so feel free to adjust the sugar to match your taste. Enjoy it chilled at your next BBQ or potluck!