CREAMY MACARONI SALAD

Creamy Macaroni Salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender pasta with a luscious, tangy dressing. This salad is a staple at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise and a touch of mustard, coats the macaroni and vegetables, while hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and onions add depth and crunch. Simple yet flavorful, this macaroni salad is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion where a comforting, cold dish is needed.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles (dill or sweet, depending on preference)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the Salad: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Stir in the diced celery, red onion, pickles, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

Creamy Macaroni Salad is the perfect side dish for summer gatherings or any time you need a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy, tangy dressing and crunch from the vegetables make it a delicious addition to any meal.