Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Macaroni Salad: The Perfect Classic Recipe for Picnics


  • Author: ushinzomr

Description

A classic macaroni salad that’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with veggies. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup peas, frozen or fresh
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and mix well.
  4. Fold in the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, peas, and hard-boiled eggs (if using).
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

  • Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or corn for extra crunch.
  • For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 400
  • Fat: 20
  • Carbohydrates: 30
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 70

Keywords: macaroni salad, classic macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, easy macaroni salad, picnic macaroni salad, potluck macaroni salad