Tangy And Creamy Macaroni Salad (Print Version)
Classic macaroni salad with crisp vegetables in tangy creamy dressing. Ideal for gatherings and outdoor meals.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup finely diced celery
03 - 1 cup finely diced red bell pepper
04 - 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
05 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
→ Dressing
06 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 cup sour cream
08 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
09 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
10 - 2 teaspoons sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Optional Add-ins
14 - 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# How to Make It:
01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold running water to halt cooking. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool completely.
02 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and thoroughly combined.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and shredded carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Fold gently with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
04 - If using, fold in sweet pickle relish and chopped fresh parsley until distributed throughout the salad.
05 - Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasonings if desired. Serve cold.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The perfect balance of tang and creaminess keeps everyone coming back for more
- It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge making it ideal for prep ahead entertaining
02 -
- Overcooked pasta will turn your salad into mush so watch it carefully and rinse it thoroughly
- The salad needs at least an hour in the fridge or the dressing will taste separate from the pasta
03 -
- Cut your vegetables slightly smaller than you think you need to ensure every bite has the perfect crunch to cream ratio
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta and adjust the vinegar or sugar to your liking