Tangy and Creamy Macaroni Salad (Printable Version)
Classic macaroni salad with crunchy veggies in a tangy creamy dressing. Ideal for gatherings and outdoor meals.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
→ 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, shredded
→ Dressing
06 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 cup sour cream
08 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
09 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
10 - 2 teaspoons sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Optional Add-ins
14 - 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# How to Make It:
01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold running water to halt cooking. Transfer to a large bowl and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and shredded carrots to the dressing. Gently fold to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy mixture.
04 - If using, fold in sweet pickle relish and chopped fresh parsley for added sweetness and herbal brightness.
05 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve cold.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The creamy dressing has just the right amount of tang to wake up your taste buds
- It actually gets better after sitting in the fridge making it perfect for meal prep
02 -
- Never skip rinsing the pasta under cold water because it prevents sticking and stops cooking
- The salad needs at least an hour in the fridge or the flavors will taste separate and unfinished
03 -
- Cut your vegetables slightly smaller than you think you need them so every bite has everything
- Double the dressing if you prefer a creamier salad because pasta soaks it up as it sits