Description
Classic Picnic Macaroni Salad is the ultimate summer side dish that combines creamy textures with a burst of vibrant flavors. This easy-to-make salad is filled with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect addition to picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and chilled for enhanced flavor. Enjoy this nostalgic dish that appeals to all ages, whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a light lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing along with celery, bell pepper, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and hard-boiled eggs. Mix gently until well combined.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Add parsley just before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg