Description

Macaroni Salad is a timeless side dish that adds a burst of flavor and freshness to any meal. With its creamy texture and colorful array of vegetables and herbs, this recipe is a surefire hit at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Prepare these ingredients to create your delightful Macaroni Salad:

1 lb uncooked macaroni pasta
½ cup diced red onion
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
3 short celery ribs, diced
¼ cup diced green onion
2 tbsp minced fresh parsley
1 tbsp minced fresh dill weed

Dressing Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 ½ tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Macaroni Salad:

Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool until no longer hot.
Prepare Vegetables and Herbs:
- Dice the red onion, red bell pepper, celery ribs, green onion, parsley, and dill weed. Set aside.
Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the diced vegetables and herbs.
Add the Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a food storage container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Quick Stats

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 28 minutes (includes chilling time)
Servings: 8

Notes

Enjoying and preserving your Macaroni Salad ensures it maintains its freshness and delicious flavors. Here are essential tips for serving and storing this classic side dish:

Serving Suggestions:

Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, refrigerate the Macaroni Salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Garnish Creatively: Before serving, garnish with additional minced parsley or dill weed to enhance the presentation and add a fresh touch.
Serve Chilled: Macaroni Salad is best served chilled. Keep it in the refrigerator until ready to serve to maintain its creamy texture and cool freshness.
Pairing Ideas: Serve alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread at picnics and barbecues. It complements a wide range of main dishes.

Storage Guidelines:

Refrigeration: Store leftover Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Stir Before Serving: Before serving leftovers, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy dressing, Macaroni Salad does not freeze well. Freezing can alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables upon thawing.
Keep Cool: If transporting or serving outdoors, keep the salad chilled in a cooler or over ice to maintain freshness and food safety.

Make-Ahead Tips:

Advance Preparation: You can prepare Macaroni Salad a day in advance. Prepare and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavors.

Presentation Enhancements:

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste and texture. Crisp vegetables and herbs will add a delightful crunch and flavor to the salad.
Customization: Customize the salad by adding extras like diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or cooked chicken for added protein and variety.