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Creamy American Macaroni Salad

Creamy American Macaroni Salad That Everyone Will Love

This Creamy American Macaroni Salad brings back the nostalgia of summer picnics, is easy to make, and perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni A staple that gives the salad its delightful comforting texture.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Adds creaminess and richness; feel free to use a lighter version if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar A splash of tang that balances the dish perfectly.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Brings a slight kick of flavor for that extra zing.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Just a hint of sweetness to harmonize the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the salad.
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper A dash of freshness and warmth to the mix.
  • ½ cup diced celery Offers a satisfying crunch and refreshing taste.
  • ½ cup chopped red bell pepper Brightens the dish with sweetness and color.
  • ¼ cup chopped red onion Adds a touch of sharpness that complements the creaminess.
  • ¼ cup chopped dill pickle Brings a tangy punch that makes each bite exciting.
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped For added protein and an extra creamy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley A vibrant garnish that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy American Macaroni Salad

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse in cold water.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until smooth.
  • Gently add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir to coat evenly.
  • Fold in diced celery, chopped red bell pepper, red onion, dill pickle, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
  • Cover and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  • Before serving, stir gently and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and allow the salad to chill. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Creamy American Macaroni Salad, Easy Salad, macaroni salad, make-ahead salad, Picnic Salad, vegetable salad
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