Description
This Best Macaroni Salad recipe is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish packed with fresh veggies, pickles, and cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for summer picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Made with elbow macaroni, a zesty dressing, and a crunchy veggie mix, this macaroni salad is sure to be a hit! Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s an ideal option for any occasion. Try this delicious recipe today!
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup diced dill pickles
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: paprika, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, red onion, celery, parsley, black olives, dill pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with paprika, if desired.
Notes
You can customize this salad by adding cooked chicken, bacon, or ham for added protein.
For a vegan version, swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free version.
If you like spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 290 kcal
