Creamy Macaroni Salad (Printable)

Tender pasta with crisp vegetables in creamy tangy dressing

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 10 oz elbow macaroni

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup celery, finely diced
03 - 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
04 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
05 - 1/2 cup carrots, grated
06 - 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

→ Dressing

07 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
08 - 2 tbsp sour cream
09 - 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
10 - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
11 - 1 tsp sugar
12 - 1/2 tsp salt
13 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives

# Step-by-Step:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly in a colander, rinse under cold running water to stop cooking, and transfer to a large bowl to cool completely.
02 - While pasta cools, combine diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, grated carrots, and thawed peas in a separate large mixing bowl.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth and well blended.
04 - Add cooled macaroni to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
05 - Taste the salad and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop and meld together.
06 - Remove from refrigerator and transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The dressing strikes that perfect balance between creamy and tangy so every bite feels complete
  • You can make it ahead and it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a day
02 -
  • The pasta continues to absorb dressing as it sits so if making ahead, reserve a little extra to loosen it before serving
  • Cold pasta does not absorb seasoning well, so taste the final dish after it has chilled and adjust then
03 -
  • Rinse the pasta thoroughly with cold water until it feels cool to the touch or the dressing will melt and turn watery
  • Let the salad come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so the flavors really wake up
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