Macaroni Salad
Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Tender elbow macaroni combines with crunchy celery, onions, peppers, and a smooth homemade dressing. Every ingredient complements the others perfectly. The salad tastes even better after chilling for several hours. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, and fried chicken. This make-ahead recipe is ideal for parties, potlucks, and everyday family meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Garnish
- Paprika
- Fresh parsley
- Chopped chives
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until just tender.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Allow the macaroni to drain completely before mixing.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing.
- Fold in celery, bell peppers, onion, chopped eggs, and parsley.
- Mix gently until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours.
- Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Notes
- Cook pasta just until al dente.
- Cool the pasta completely before adding the dressing.
- Chill the salad before serving.
- Fresh vegetables provide the best crunch.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Add extra mayonnaise if the salad dries out.
- Serve cold for the best flavor.