This recipe for The Best Macaroni Salad is a delightful take on a classic side dish. Combining the tender bite of elbow macaroni with the creamy richness of mayonnaise and the crunch of fresh vegetables, it’s a balanced and flavorful salad perfect for any occasion. Adding sweet relish, dry ground mustard, and a dash of paprika gives this salad a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from your standard macaroni salad. I made this for a family picnic, and it was a standout dish – easy to make, yet packed with taste. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/3 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely minced onion (dehydrated onion can be used)
- 2 tablespoons sweet relish
- 3/4 teaspoon dry ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 dash paprika
- 3 quarts water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (for boiling macaroni)
Instructions
- Boiling Macaroni: In a large pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually add the elbow macaroni and return to a boil. Boil uncovered for 6-8 minutes.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the macaroni well, rinse with cold water, and drain again to cool it down quickly.
- Mixing Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped celery, carrot, hard-boiled egg, minced onion, sweet relish, dry ground mustard, salt, black pepper, and a dash of paprika.
- Combining with Macaroni: Place the cooked macaroni in a large bowl and toss well with the prepared mixture.
- Chilling: Cover the salad and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (Varies based on the type of mayonnaise used and serving sizes)
Preparation Time
Total Time: About 20 minutes (10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking)
Additional Tips
- Mayonnaise Alternatives: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayonnaise.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like green peas, bell peppers, or diced cucumber.
- Flavor Enhancements: For extra tang, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the salad.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve as a side with BBQ, grilled chicken, or sandwiches.
- Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
- Q: Can I use whole wheat macaroni?
A: Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be a healthier alternative. - Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Use vegan mayonnaise and omit the hard-boiled egg. - Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Yes, diced ham, chicken, or tuna make great additions. - Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free macaroni. - Q: Can I prepare this salad a day ahead?
A: Yes, it actually tastes better when the flavors have time to blend. - Q: Is it necessary to rinse the macaroni in cold water?
A: Yes, it stops the cooking process and keeps the macaroni from getting mushy. - Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, pasta like fusilli or penne can be used, but elbow macaroni is traditional. - Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge. - Q: Can I add more spices?
A: Certainly! Adjust the seasoning to your taste.