Tangy And Creamy Macaroni Salad (Printable)
Classic macaroni salad with crisp vegetables and zesty creamy dressing, perfect for outdoor gatherings.
# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup finely diced celery
03 - 1 cup finely diced red bell pepper
04 - 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
05 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
→ Dressing
06 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 cup sour cream
08 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
09 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
10 - 2 teaspoons sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Optional Add-ins
14 - 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# Directions:
01 - Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold running water to halt cooking. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool completely.
02 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well blended.
03 - Add cooled macaroni to the dressing along with diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and shredded carrots. Fold gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy mixture.
04 - If using, stir in sweet pickle relish and chopped fresh parsley for additional flavor and color.
05 - Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap or lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve cold.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The secret combination of apple cider vinegar and Dijon creates that addictive tang that keeps everyone coming back for seconds
- It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep and makeahead gatherings
02 -
- Never skip rinsing the pasta under cold water or it will continue cooking and become mushy as it cools
- The salad needs at least one hour in the refrigerator, but the texture and flavor improve significantly overnight
03 -
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta and adjust the vinegar or sugar to your personal preference
- If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk to restore creaminess