Classic Macaroni Pasta Salad
This classic macaroni pasta salad is the must-make side dish to take along to any potluck or BBQ this summer. Packed with flavor in every bite, and deliciously chilled and creamy, you're going to want seconds.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 449kcal
Cost: Recipe $4.37 / Serving $0.55
Equipment
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni ($0.99)
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise ($0.90)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard ($0.05)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar ($0.07)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar ($0.02)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder ($0.04)
- ½ teaspoon paprika ($0.04)
Mix-Ins
- ¾ cup celery, finely chopped ($0.50)
- ¾ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped ($0.75)
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped ($0.30)
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish ($0.37)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped ($0.38)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
- Make the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
- Combine. Add the cooled pasta, celery, bell pepper, red onion, relish, and eggs to the dressing. Stir gently until evenly coated.
- Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve. Stir before serving and garnish with paprika or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Pasta tip. Rinsing with cold water prevents overcooking and helps the pasta hold its texture.
- Moisture fix. If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise or vinegar.
- Flavor boost. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- Texture. Finely chopped vegetables ensure even bites throughout.
- Storage. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. Stir before serving. Do not freeze.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 449kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 309mg | Potassium: 232mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 721IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg
