Mom’s Macaroni Salad

This Mom’s Macaroni Salad is a classic family favorite, combining tender pasta with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any family gathering. Simple, comforting, and full of nostalgic flavors, this recipe will remind you of home with every bite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Colander
• Spoon or spatula

Ingredients Overview

• Elbow Macaroni: The foundation of the salad, cooked to tender perfection.
• Crisp Vegetables: Celery, red onion, and bell peppers add crunch and color.
• Creamy Dressing: A mix of mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of vinegar creates a tangy, luscious coating.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Add protein and a rich, creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

• Finely chop 2 stalks of celery, ½ red onion, and 1 small red or green bell pepper.

3. Make the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

4. Assemble the Salad

• Add the cooled macaroni, chopped vegetables, and 3 diced hard-boiled eggs to the dressing.
• Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated.

5. Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
• Serve cold, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped parsley if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Customize the Vegetables: Add grated carrots, peas, or diced cucumbers for more variety.
• Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping in advance.
• Adjust the Dressing: If the salad feels dry after chilling, stir in a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Grilled Meats: Pairs perfectly with burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ chicken.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Baked Beans: For a classic barbecue side dish combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or ditalini work just as well.

How long does macaroni salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this without eggs?
Absolutely! You can omit the eggs or replace them with extra veggies or cheese cubes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook and cool the elbow macaroni.
2. Prepare the vegetables and hard-boiled eggs.
3. Mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the dressing.
4. Combine macaroni, vegetables, eggs, and dressing in a large bowl.
5. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

This Mom’s Macaroni Salad is a nostalgic, creamy side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser!

This Mom’s Macaroni Salad

This Mom’s Macaroni Salad is a classic family favorite, combining tender pasta with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any family gathering. Simple, comforting, and full of nostalgic flavors, this recipe will remind you of home with every bite.

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Equipment

• Kitchen Equipment Needed:
• Large pot
• Mixing bowls 
• Colander
• Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 stalks celery finely chopped
• ½ red onion finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper finely chopped
• 3 hard-boiled eggs diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Cook and cool the elbow macaroni.
• Prepare the vegetables and hard-boiled eggs.
• Mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the dressing.
• Combine macaroni, vegetables, eggs, and dressing in a large bowl.
• Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
• This Mom’s Macaroni Salad is a nostalgic, creamy side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser!