Best Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Cool, creamy macaroni salad with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing is a family-favorite vegetarian cookout side. This classic picnic dish is easy to make ahead for any gathering.

Cook 30 min Difficulty EASY 290 kcal
#vegetarian #picnic #make ahead #side dish
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • elbow macaroni 2 cups
  • celery 2 stalks
  • red bell pepper 0.5 pieces
  • carrot 1 pieces
  • red onion 0.25 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • mayonnaise 0.66 cup
  • sour cream 0.25 cup
  • apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp
  • Dijon mustard 2 tsp
  • sugar 1 tsp
  • salt 0.75 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 36 g 50%
Protein 7 g 10%
Fat 12 g 40%
Serving size 160g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat, add macaroni, and cook for 7–8 minutes until just al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to cool.

  2. 2

    Dice celery, red bell pepper, carrot, and red onion into small, even pieces for balanced crunch and texture.

  3. 3

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.

  4. 4

    Add cooled macaroni and all vegetables to the dressing; gently fold with a spatula to coat every piece evenly without breaking the pasta.

  5. 5

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill completely before serving. Toss lightly again before plating.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The signature ingredient is elbow macaroni, which creates the classic chew and structure needed for a traditional macaroni salad. Combined with the creamy dressing, the pasta forms the core flavor and texture foundation of the dish.
Q. How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?
To maintain perfect pasta texture, cook the macaroni only until just al dente—about 7–8 minutes in boiling water. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and avoid mushiness.
Q. Which ingredient brings the tangy flavor?
Apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard both add brightness and a balanced tang to the creamy dressing, enhancing the salad's overall flavor profile.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains about 290 kcal and 7g of protein, with carbohydrates supplying 50%, protein 10%, and fat 40% of the calories.
Q. Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. This macaroni salad is designed to be made ahead: chilling for at least one hour before serving improves flavor as the dressing absorbs. Just toss lightly before plating to refresh the ingredients.
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