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Homemade Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe photo

Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe

A creamy, tangy macaroni salad loaded with crunchy vegetables and dill pickle for classic picnic flavor.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper diced (about 3/4 cup)
  • 1/4 red onion diced (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 stalk celery diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickles finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons parsley minced (for garnish, optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing, then fold in the diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, diced celery, and finely diced dill pickles until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Garnish with minced parsley if desired and chill before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Make this salad vegan by using vegan mayonnaise.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten free.