Description

Macaroni salad is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a tasty side to any meal. This recipe strikes a perfect balance of creamy richness, crunchy vegetables, and fresh flavors. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard, smooth mayonnaise, and fresh parsley adds a delicious twist to a classic favorite. Whether you're making it for a casual gathering or prepping it as a make-ahead lunch, this macaroni salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 16 oz. elbow macaroni
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon spicy Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Cook the Macaroni: Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions, cooking it until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy and allows the salad to be served chilled.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the macaroni is cooling, it’s time to prep the vegetables. Finely chop the red onion, dice the green and red bell peppers, and grate the carrot. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note, so be sure to chop it finely as well. These fresh ingredients add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the salad.

Make the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, spicy Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick of heat, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise, while the salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor. Feel free to adjust the mustard to your taste if you prefer more or less spice.

Combine Everything: Now that the macaroni has cooled and the veggies are prepped, it’s time to bring everything together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the macaroni, chopped vegetables, and the creamy dressing. Toss everything together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Chill and Serve: For the best results, refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become perfectly chilled. Serve the macaroni salad cold, and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness with your favorite main dishes!

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For a little extra crunch and flavor, you can add diced celery or pickles to the salad. If you're a fan of a sweeter macaroni salad, consider stirring in a tablespoon of relish for a tangy-sweet contrast. This salad is also easily customizable—feel free to add cooked bacon bits or diced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and flavor.

Conclusion:
This Ultimate Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fresh, making it an excellent addition to any meal. The colorful vegetables and tangy dressing add layers of flavor and texture that will leave your guests asking for more. Simple to make and even better when made ahead of time, this salad is ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish to any meal. Try it once, and it will become a regular favorite in your recipe collection!