Macaroni Salad Recipe
Make Macaroni Salad Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Vegetables
Dressing
Optional Add-ins
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 2
Drain and Cool
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
Preparing Vegetables
- 3
Chop and Dice
While the pasta is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Dice the celery and red bell pepper, slice the green onion, and grate the carrot. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Making the Dressing
- 4
Combine Dressing Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
Combining Salad
- 5
Mix Everything Together
Once the macaroni has cooled, add it to the bowl with the diced vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently until everything is well coated.
- 6
Add Optional Ingredients
If using, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickle relish, and bacon bits. Mix until evenly distributed.
- 7
Chill
Cover the macaroni salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.