Creamy macaroni salad is the quintessential summer dish, combining simplicity, freshness, and rich flavors in every bite. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light meal on a hot day, this salad offers a delightful balance of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a luscious creamy dressing. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, creamy macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser that complements any summer spread. Here’s a recipe to make this classic dish that is sure to become a staple in your summer meal repertoire.
Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
Instructions:
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the dressing. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, and parsley to the bowl. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed. If using, stir in the sweet pickle relish for an added touch of sweetness and tang.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish:
- For a touch of color and extra flavor, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
Conclusion
This creamy macaroni salad is a delightful addition to any summer meal. With its combination of creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and tender pasta, it offers a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for hot days. Easy to make ahead and even better the next day, this salad is a versatile favorite that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course, and savor the flavors of summer in every bite.
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