Macaroni salad

Here is a detailed macaroni salad recipe with clear, step-by-step directions. No emojis.

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Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)

• 1 cup celery, finely chopped (about 2 stalks)

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (about 1 small onion)

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)

• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

For the dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)

• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the macaroni

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.

3. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 7–9 minutes).

4. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.

5. Set aside to drain well.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

1. While the macaroni cooks, chop the celery, onion, bell pepper, and carrots.

2. If using eggs, peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs.

3. Place all vegetables (and eggs if using) into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the dressing

1. In a separate bowl, combine:

   • mayonnaise

   • vinegar

   • mustard

   • sugar

   • salt

   • pepper

   • garlic powder

   • onion powder

2. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Combine salad and dressing

1. Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with vegetables.

2. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture.

3. Add the sweet pickle relish.

4. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and serve

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or overnight.

3. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed (salt, pepper, or a little more vinegar).

4. Serve chilled.

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Tips for Best Results

• Rinse the macaroni under cold water to stop cooking and keep the salad from getting mushy.

• For creamier salad, add more mayonnaise.

• For tangier salad, add extra vinegar or mustard.

• If the salad becomes dry after chilling, stir in a little extra mayonnaise before serving.