Description
Looking for the best macaroni salad recipe? This one is quick, easy, creamy, and loaded with crunchy veggies perfect for healthy picnic ideas! Whether you’re prepping for a BBQ or just need a simple cold side, this macaroni salad is one of the best!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted water until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add macaroni to the dressing and stir until coated.
- Mix in celery, red bell pepper, onion, and parsley. Fold gently.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Toss to refresh.
Notes
- Save extra dressing to refresh before serving.
- Add diced ham or hard-boiled eggs for protein.
- Use pickles, peas, or carrots as veggie swaps.
- Best enjoyed chilled and made ahead for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg