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Creamy Southern Macaroni Salad Recipe with Tangy Pickles

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A quick and easy southern-style macaroni salad featuring creamy mayo dressing and tangy dill pickles, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 200g), cooked al dente
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (240ml), full-fat
  • 1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta down. Set aside to drain completely (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper to taste until smooth and creamy. Adjust vinegar or sugar if more tang or sweetness is desired.
  3. Finely dice 1 cup dill pickles, 1/4 cup red onion, 1/2 cup celery, and if using, chop 2 hard-boiled eggs.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained macaroni, chopped pickles, onion, celery, and eggs. Pour the dressing over and gently fold everything together with a spatula or spoon, taking care not to break the pasta.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad again, taste, and add salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped dill or parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushiness. Rinse pasta under cold water to remove starch and cool it. Chop pickles finely for even flavor distribution. Chill salad for at least 1 hour to meld flavors. Can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor. Use vegan mayo and skip eggs for vegan version. Swap pasta for cauliflower or zucchini for low-carb option.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, southern macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, tangy pickles, picnic side dish, potluck recipe, easy macaroni salad

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/creamy-southern-macaroni-salad-recipe-with-tangy-pickles-easy-and-perfect/