Description

This creamy macaroni salad, packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. The combination of tender macaroni, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, flavorful dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to make it

Ingredients

• 16 oz. elbow macaroni
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• ¾ cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise can be used)
• 1 tbsp. spicy Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Cooking the Macaroni:

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente, which typically takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures that your macaroni is perfectly tender yet firm, providing the ideal base for your salad.
Preparing the Veggies:

While the macaroni cools, finely chop the red onion, dice the green and red bell peppers, chop the fresh parsley, and grate the carrot. These vibrant vegetables not only add color and texture to the salad but also contribute a delightful crunch and freshness.
Making the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, spicy Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is the heart of the salad, bringing all the flavors together and adding a luscious texture that coats the macaroni and veggies evenly.
Bringing It All Together:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Chill and Serve:

For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and spicy

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:

Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced celery, cherry tomatoes, or even some shredded cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
Healthier Option: For a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and mayo. This adds creaminess with fewer calories.
Add a Kick: If you like your salad with a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
Conclusion:

This creamy macaroni salad is not just visually appealing with its colorful array of vegetables, but it’s also bursting with flavor. The combination of the tangy dressing and the fresh crunch of the veggies creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you're serving it at a summer cookout or as a side dish for dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the vibrant taste and texture of this classic dish!