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Macaroni salad in a bowl.

Easy Macaroni Salad

Recipe by: Jamielyn Nye
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 10
This easy macaroni salad recipe is a classic potluck side dish made with noodles, red pepper, celery, onions and a creamy mayo dressing. It will be a staple at BBQs all summer!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces uncooked elbow noodles
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 3-4 Tablespoons white vinegar , or cider vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt , plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper , plus more to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill, optional
  • 1 red bell pepper , chopped
  • ½ cup finely chopped celery
  • ¼ cup minced red onion

Instructions

  • Boil pasta. Cook 8 ounces elbow noodles according to package directions. Drain under cold water. 
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 3-4 Tablespoons vinegar, 2 Tablespoons sugar, 2 Tablespoons relish, 1 Tablespoons mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix in freshly chopped herbs, if desired.
  • In a large bowl, add the noodles, bell pepper, 1/2 cup celery, and 1/4 cup onion. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss until well combined. Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Optional add in's: 
  • 6 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup shredded or cubed cheese
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, mashed
  • Add in more veggies, such as grated carrots or peas
Make-ahead: This recipe can easily be made ahead of time. I love to make it the day before and let the flavors marinate together in the fridge overnight. However I do leave out the bacon if chilling overnight. I'll add it in right before serving so that it stays nice and crisp.
Keep it Moist: If you're making it ahead of time, I'd recommend making a little more dressing to have on hand. That way, you can add some in the next day before serving. The extra dressing will keep it moist and delicious!
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. 

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 10g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 8mg, Sodium: 178mg, Potassium: 108mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 476IU, Vitamin C: 16mg, Calcium: 17mg, Iron: 0.4mg

Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.
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