Tangy And Creamy Macaroni Salad (Printable version)

Classic macaroni salad with crunchy veggies and zesty dressing

# What you need:

→ Pasta

01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup celery, finely diced
03 - 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
04 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
05 - 1/2 cup carrots, shredded

→ Dressing

06 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 cup sour cream
08 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
09 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
10 - 2 teaspoons sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ Optional Add-ins

14 - 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# How To:

01 - Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and fully incorporated.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and carrots to the bowl. Gently fold to distribute evenly and coat all ingredients with dressing.
04 - If using, fold in sweet pickle relish and fresh parsley for additional flavor and color.
05 - Cover bowl and refrigerate for minimum 1 hour to allow flavors to develop and meld.
06 - Stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired. Serve cold.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The dressing hits that magical sweet spot where richness meets brightness, making each bite impossibly addictive
  • It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge, making it the ultimate make-ahead party side
02 -
  • Never skip the chilling time, this salad needs those flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the dressing properly
  • The pasta will soak up dressing as it sits, so if you're making it a day ahead, reserve a little extra dressing to refresh before serving
03 -
  • Cut your vegetables slightly smaller than you think necessary, it makes each bite more pleasant and cohesive
  • The smoked paprika is optional but adds such a lovely depth that I almost always include it

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