Description
Classic Macaroni Salad is a timeless favorite that brings together creamy textures and crunchy vegetables, making it an irresistible side dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make salad features tender macaroni tossed with colorful veggies and a rich, tangy dressing that is sure to please guests of all ages. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, this chilled pasta dish can be made ahead of time, allowing you to save valuable preparation time on the day of your gathering. Enjoy it as a satisfying standalone dish or paired alongside grilled chicken for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dried macaroni pasta
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced small
- 2 stalks celery, diced small
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 5 sweet gherkins, finely diced
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed small
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely diced
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika, optional
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with red bell pepper, celery, onion, gherkins, cheddar cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
- In another bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well coated. Chill before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in peas or corn. Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour enhances its taste. This recipe is easily customizable; feel free to adjust ingredients based on personal preference.