Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect side for your next outdoor cookout! A delicious mixture of pasta, crunchy celery, fresh bell pepper, creamy mayo, and tangy Dijon mustard for a delightful range of textures and flavors. It’s super simple to make ahead and enjoy later! Serve this Classic Macaroni Salad alongside any BBQ or even by itself — it’s that good!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow pasta
- 2 celery ribs, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- kosher salt, to taste
- ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1 –Bring a large pot of water to boil.
Step 2 –Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Step 3 –Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
Step 4 –Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Step 5 –Add the celery, the bell peppers, and the red onion.
Step 6 –In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the pickle juice, the sugar, and the mustard.
Step 7 –Season the mayo mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8 –Add the dressing to the macaroni mixture, tossing until all the contents are evenly coated.
Step 9 –Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
Step 10 –Serve chilled.