Classic Macaroni Pasta Salad
Creamy, Colorful, and Perfect for Any Gathering
Macaroni pasta salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that works for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or lunchboxes. This creamy salad combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a satisfying and refreshing side dish. The best part is you can prepare it ahead of time—the flavors actually improve after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Pasta
-
3 cups (270 g) elbow macaroni
-
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Vegetables & Add-Ins
-
1 cup diced celery
-
½ cup diced red bell pepper
-
½ cup diced green bell pepper
-
½ cup shredded carrots
-
½ cup diced red onion (optional)
-
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
-
1 cup cubed cooked ham or cooked chicken (optional)
-
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
-
1 cup mayonnaise
-
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
-
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tsp sugar
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
Equipment Needed
-
Large pot
-
Colander
-
Large mixing bowl
-
Whisk or spoon
-
Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta (10–12 minutes)
Bring a large pot of water to a boil with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the elbow macaroni and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente.
Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Dressing (5 minutes)
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Vegetables (5 minutes)
Add the celery, bell peppers, carrots, red onion, peas, and optional meat to the cooled pasta. Toss gently to combine.
4. Mix in the Dressing (3–5 minutes)
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Mix thoroughly until every piece is coated with dressing.
Add shredded cheese and gently fold it in.
5. Chill for Best Flavor (30–60 minutes)
Cover the salad and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve cold as a side dish for barbecues or picnics
-
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions
-
Pair with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or burgers
Tips for Perfect Macaroni Salad
-
Use al dente pasta to prevent mushiness
-
Rinse pasta in cold water to cool it quickly
-
Adjust the dressing to taste—add more mayonnaise for creaminess or more vinegar for tang
-
Add extras like olives, cherry tomatoes, or hard-boiled eggs for variety
Storage
-
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days
-
Stir before serving if dressing separates
Final Thoughts
Classic macaroni pasta salad is versatile, easy to make, and a guaranteed hit at any gathering. With crisp vegetables, a creamy dressing, and tender pasta, it’s a refreshing, satisfying side dish that can be made ahead of time.