When it comes to classic comfort food dishes, macaroni salad holds a special place in our hearts. This recipe is a perfect blend of creamy and tangy flavors, ideal for potlucks, picnics, or simply as a delicious side dish for any meal. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s delve into how to whip up this timeless favorite – Macaroni Salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as you don’t want mushy pasta in your salad. Drain the cooked macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. This creamy and tangy dressing will be the flavor-packed base of your macaroni salad.
3. Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the dressing. The creamy mixture should coat every piece of macaroni for a well-rounded flavor in every bite.
4. Add in the diced celery, red bell pepper, and red onion to the macaroni. These colorful veggies not only add a delightful crunch but also bring a burst of freshness to the salad. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs. The eggs will add a creamy texture and a hint of richness to the salad, making it even more satisfying.
6. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad. The vibrant green color and the herbaceous flavor of parsley will brighten up the dish and add a beautiful finishing touch.
7. Chill the macaroni salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This rest time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish. Give it a gentle stir before serving.
Enjoy this Macaroni Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, at a summer barbecue, or simply on its own as a light meal. The creamy dressing, combined with the crunchy veggies and tender pasta, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving for more. Personalize it by adding in your favorite ingredients like shredded carrots, peas, or even some crispy bacon. It’s a versatile dish that can adapt to your preferences while still retaining its delightful essence. So, whip up a batch of this classic macaroni salad and let its timeless appeal bring joy to your table.
