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Awesome Easy Macaroni Salad

Awesome Easy Macaroni Salad

A classic, creamy, and refreshing macaroni salad that is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a simple summer side dish. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cold Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Elbow Macaroni
  • 1 cup Celery finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion finely chopped
  • 2 large Hard-Boiled Eggs chopped
  • 1/2 cup Sweet Pickle Relish
For the Dressing
  • 1 1/2 cups Mayonnaise or to taste
  • 1/4 cup Yellow Mustard
  • 2 tablespoons White Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately, rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Add the cooled, drained macaroni, chopped celery, diced red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and sweet pickle relish to the bowl with the dressing.
  4. Gently fold all ingredients together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the pasta.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed (add more salt, pepper, or vinegar for tang). Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Give it one final stir before taking it out to the table.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding 1/4 cup of finely diced bell pepper or pimentos. Ensure the macaroni is fully chilled before mixing with the dressing; warm pasta absorbs too much dressing.