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Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad

A fork lifts a perfect bite of Classic Macaroni Salad Creamy Summer Side, showing elbow macaroni, egg, and red onion.
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A reliable, traditional recipe for a creamy macaroni salad perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (full fat recommended)
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle juice (from the relish jar)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking. Drain very well.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and pickle juice until smooth. This is your creamy dressing base.
  3. Add the cooled, drained macaroni to the dressing. Mix gently until all the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. Fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the dressing, increasing creaminess.
  6. Before serving, check the consistency. If the salad seems too thick after chilling, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra mayonnaise or a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  7. Serve cold as a side dish for picnics or BBQs.

Notes

  • For the creamiest result, use full-fat mayonnaise. Low-fat versions tend to thin out when mixed with vinegar.
  • Rinsing the cooked pasta well with cold water is crucial to remove excess starch, which prevents the salad from becoming gummy later.
  • If making ahead, reserve a small amount of dressing ingredients to stir in just before serving, as the pasta absorbs liquid over time.

Nutrition

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