Classic Macaroni Salad

Time :35 minutes
Yield :12 servings

Recipe Background

Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect side for your next outdoor cookout! A delicious mixture of pasta, crunchy celery, fresh bell pepper, creamy mayo, and tangy Dijon mustard for a delightful range of textures and flavors. It’s super simple to make ahead and enjoy later! Serve this Classic Macaroni Salad alongside any BBQ or even by itself — it’s that good!
Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect side for your next outdoor cookout! A delicious mixture of pasta, crunchy celery, fresh bell pepper, creamy mayo, and tangy Dijon mustard for a delightful range of textures and flavors. It’s super simple to make ahead and enjoy later! Serve this Classic Macaroni Salad alongside any BBQ or even by itself — it’s that good!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow pasta
  • 2 celery ribs minced
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon pickle juice
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • kosher salt to taste
  • ground black pepper to taste

Directions

  • Bring a large pot of water to boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
  • Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
  • Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  • Add the celery, the bell peppers, and the red onion.
  • In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the pickle juice, the sugar, and the mustard.
  • Season the mayo mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the dressing to the macaroni mixture, tossing until all the contents are evenly coated.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
  • Serve chilled.
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