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Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Homemade Side Dish

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A creamy, tangy, and simple macaroni salad perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings. This easy 5-ingredient recipe delivers classic flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts / 3.8 liters). Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7–8 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain the pasta thoroughly using a colander, then rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Let it drain well for a few minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing bowl. Gently fold with a wooden spoon or spatula to coat every piece evenly without breaking the pasta.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors marry.
  6. Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Taste once more and add extra salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is key. Rinse pasta well to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother dressing. Fold gently to avoid breaking pasta. Chill for at least 1 hour to deepen flavors. If salad is too thick after chilling, stir in a teaspoon or two of cold water or milk to loosen.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, classic macaroni salad, easy macaroni salad, 5-ingredient salad, picnic side dish, barbecue side dish

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/classic-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-homemade-side-dish/