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Creamy Macaroni Salad

A delightful creamy macaroni salad bursting with textures from tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a luscious dressing, perfect for potlucks and summer barbecues.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Potluck, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool.
  2. While the pasta is cooling, dice the celery, bell pepper, and red onion. Thaw the peas if frozen.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir well until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni and chopped vegetables to the dressing. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste. Give it another mix.
  6. For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

Notes

Feel free to swap out elbow macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for a healthier option. You can add cubed Halal-friendly chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Make this salad ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.