Magnificent Macaroni Salad

Magnificent Macaroni Salad

You just don’t mess around with the classics sometimes. Although some might look at this recipe for macaroni salad and think it’s too easy (where is the twist? what makes it special? Shouldn’t it be harder than this?), that’s precisely why it’s a long-proven favorite. A good summer recipe, our recipe for Macaroni Salad is perfect for gatherings like BBQs, lunches, dinners, or even as a side dish at celebrations.

In our family of four, we have a charming tradition when it comes to birthday celebrations. My mother and brother adore spaghetti, so we celebrate their special days with a big plate of it. Meanwhile, my father and I share a love for macaroni, making it the star of our birthday menus. This delightful dish also graces our table during Christmas and New Year, though we’ve decided never to serve spaghetti and macaroni together at the same meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni salad is incredibly easy to make, yet it delivers on flavor every single time. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost anything, making it a staple at any event. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Stirring spoon

Ingredients

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1½ cups mayonnaise
  • ⅓ large onion, minced
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp prepared yellow mustard
  • 2 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp white sugar, or more to taste
  • ¾ tsp celery seed
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3 hard-cooked eggs, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through but still firm to the bite.
  2. Rinse the cooked macaroni under cold water until cool, then drain thoroughly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced onion, parsley, mustard, rice vinegar, sugar, celery seed, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni and chopped eggs to the bowl, stirring to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
  5. Chill the macaroni salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the macaroni. Aim for al dente to avoid mushiness as it will firm up slightly when chilled.
  • Taste the pasta towards the end of the cooking time to ensure the perfect texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a tangy twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice. You can also include diced bell peppers or a handful of shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this macaroni salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How long will the macaroni salad last in the fridge? It should be consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze macaroni salad? It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the mayonnaise can separate upon thawing.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this recipe for Magnificent Macaroni Salad. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple at your gatherings. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any unique twists you might add. We’d love to hear from you!

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