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Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad: Your Go-To Summer Side Sensation

Classic Macaroni Salad is a vibrant, creamy dish that perfects summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups elbow pasta Try using shells or rotini for a fun twist.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt makes a lighter alternative.
  • ½ cup sour cream You can swap it for extra mayo or vegan sour cream.
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well too.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Honey or agave can be sweet substitutes.
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard Consider Dijon mustard for a gourmet touch.
  • 1 cup celery Green bell pepper is a great alternative for the same texture.
  • 1 cup red pepper Feel free to use any sweet bell pepper.
  • ½ cup red onion Green onions can offer a milder option.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1 cup diced pickles Perfect for pickle lovers!
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs hard-boiled eggs Diced eggs give a filling touch.
  • ¼ cup chopped herbs Stir in parsley or dill for a refreshing burst of flavor and color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Steps to Prepare
  1. In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing mixture. Gently fold the pasta into the dressing.
  4. Toss in 1 cup of diced celery, 1 cup of diced red pepper, and ½ cup of finely chopped red onion. Stir together until evenly distributed.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  6. Serve cold, stirring gently before serving. Add extra mayo or milk if it seems dry.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, let your salad sit overnight before serving. Always taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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