Macaroni Salad
This creamy Macaroni Salad is the pasta salad you’re thinking of when you picture traditional, classic macaroni salad with mayo. This creamy pasta salad features macaroni and small-diced, crisp veggies tossed in a generous amount of creamy dressing.
When you’re looking for a straight-up, classic, no-frills pasta salad, this is the best macaroni salad for the job!
Table of Contents
Macaroni Salad Adaptations/Variations
Jump to the Full, Printable Recipe
The Story Behind the Recipe
I created this recipe a handful of years ago, when we were knee-deep in strange COVID times. And by “created” I mean I wanted to replicate deli-style, classic, creamy macaroni salad in all its glory.
Some veggies, but not a lot. Super, duper creamy and flavorful dressing – far from dry. Perfectly al dente pasta, preferably elbow macaroni.
I focused on a flavorful dressing and just a few crunchy but not dominant veggies. I hit on this combo and stopped there. I’ve made this SO many times since then, and have shared it with others who have requested it. It was past time to share it here!
Ingredients
Elbow macaroni – Go with the classic, nothing else will do! Okay, so you can absolutely use a different medium pasta. Penne, rotini, bow tie. But I am very, very partial to elbow macaroni for this creamy pasta salad.
Red onion – I like the mild taste and the color that some finely diced red onion adds to this macaroni salad.
Celery – Cut small, for a bit of flavor and crunch.
Red bell pepper – Adds some more pretty color and the fresh crunch is delicious!
Parsley – You can stir some in, or garnish the top. Your choice!
Dill pickles & juice – Dice up some dill pickles. It’s necessary! Plus, some juice from the jar adds tangy flavor to the creamy dressing.
Mayo – Real, whole, full fat mayo
Yellow mustard – Straight up classic mustard, please! Though I’d imagine Dijon would add nice flavor too.
Sugar – I know, an odd ingredient for macaroni salad! But this adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing that makes this salad taste like the deli classic.
Salt & pepper – Adjust to your taste.
Macaroni Salad Adaptations/Variations
This salad is easily made vegan by subbing a vegan mayo.
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta. I love brown rice pasta for pasta salads.
Add more veggies if you like. I won’t judge! Cucumbers, peas, blanched broccoli, carrots … whatever you like!
Add cubes of cheese, beans, or salami for a heartier pasta salad.
How to Make Macaroni Salad
It’s super easy to make. Just cook your pasta, let it cool, chop your veggies, add your dressing, and toss it all together!
Tips for Success
Salt your pasta water. It’s true, it does add more flavor to pasta!
Cook your pasta al dente. If your pasta is overcooked, your macaroni salad can end up being a bit mushy.
More Pasta Salad Recipes
Israeli Couscous & Green Lentil Salad
Orzo Chickpea Pasta Salad with Olives
Orzo Salad with Chickpeas & Cherry Tomatoes
Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Vegan option:
This salad is easily made vegan by subbing a vegan mayo.
Gluten free option:
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta. I love brown rice pasta for pasta salads.
Nutrition
The post Macaroni Salad appeared first on Kitchen Treaty.