Prepare to be transported back to those nostalgic family gatherings with a macaroni salad recipe that's been passed down through generations! This isn't just any ordinary side dish – it's a creamy, crunchy, flavor-packed sensation that will have everyone at your next potluck begging for the recipe. With the perfect balance of crisp vegetables and smooth mayonnaise, this classic American favorite is about to become your new go-to summer dish that screams comfort and home-cooked deliciousness!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of chopped celery, 1/2 cup of diced green bell pepper, 1/4 cup of diced onion, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the macaroni is al dente.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Chop the celery, dice the green bell pepper, and dice the onion. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the macaroni to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the chopped celery, diced green bell pepper, and diced onion.
- Add 1 cup of mayonnaise to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with mayonnaise.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Always rinse your cooked macaroni with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Let the macaroni cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to avoid a soggy salad.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mayonnaise.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For added crunch, you can include some diced pickles or use a mix of different bell peppers.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning just before serving – a little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 155kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
