Mac Salad Recipe
Make Mac Salad Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta Salad Base
Vegetables
Dressing
Optional Add-ins
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 tsp of salt to the boiling water.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
- 3
Drain and Rinse
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Preparing Vegetables
- 4
Dice and Chop
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice 1 cup of celery and 1 cup of red bell pepper. Slice 1 cup of green onions and grate 1 cup of carrots.
Making the Dressing
- 5
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tbs of Dijon mustard, 1 tbs of apple cider vinegar, 1 tbs of sugar, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of black pepper.
- 6
Mix Well
Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- 7
Mix Pasta and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, diced vegetables (celery, red bell pepper, green onions, and grated carrots), and any optional add-ins like chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, and thawed peas.
- 8
Add Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine everything until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Chilling and Serving
- 9
Chill Salad
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- 10
Serve
After chilling, stir the salad again before serving. Enjoy your refreshing mac salad!
