What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This macaroni salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick side dish. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite mix-ins, making it uniquely yours every time you make it. Plus, it’s ready in just a few simple steps, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.
Recipe
Macaroni salad is a classic side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a quick lunch. This homemade version is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled macaroni, celery, red onion, bell pepper, carrot, and parsley to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- Adjust the vegetables to your preference or add extras like peas or hard-boiled eggs.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including refrigeration)
Cuisine
American
Serving
6-8 servings
Nutrition
1 serving of this homemade macaroni salad contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Protein | 7g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving this macaroni salad with grilled chicken—it’s a simple, protein-packed combo that feels satisfying and balanced. Pairing it with classic BBQ sides, like corn on the cob or baked beans, makes it perfect for summer gatherings. It’s a meal that always brings people together!
Grilled Chicken Pairing
When I’m serving grilled chicken, I always think about sides that’ll balance the meal without stealing the spotlight, and that’s where this macaroni salad comes in. Its creamy, tangy flavor complements the smoky char of the chicken perfectly, adding a revitalizing contrast. I love how the chilled pasta and crunchy veggies cool things down, making each bite more enjoyable. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so I can focus on grilling without stress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend cookout, this macaroni salad turns a simple grilled chicken meal into something special.
Classic BBQ Sides
While grilled chicken often takes center stage at a BBQ, it’s the classic sides that really round out the meal and make it memorable. My go-to is a creamy homemade macaroni salad, but I love pairing it with other staples like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast, while roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus bring a healthy twist. Don’t forget potato salad or deviled eggs—they’re always crowd-pleasers. Whatever you choose, balance is key. I like mixing creamy, tangy, and crunchy sides to keep things interesting. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!
