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Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad
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Classic Macaroni Salad is a quintessential dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture to any gathering. Ideal for potlucks, family picnics, or casual barbecues, this creamy pasta salad combines al dente macaroni with colorful vegetables, crunchy pickles, and rich cheese, all enveloped in a delightful dressing. Not only is it quick to prepare—coming together in under an hour—but it’s also make-ahead friendly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish or enjoy it as a light main course on warm days. This versatile recipe can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, ensuring there’s something for everyone to love.

Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces dried macaroni pasta
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced small
  • 2 stalks celery, diced small
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 5 sweet gherkins, finely diced
  • 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed small
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely diced
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with red bell pepper, celery, red onion, gherkins, cheddar cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, cider vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenbyskylar.com/classic-macaroni-salad/