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Best Macaroni Salad

This colorful macaroni salad is creamy and loaded with crunchy veggies, making it a perfect side dish for picnics and barbecues.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dressing
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Adjust amount based on creaminess preference.
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
  • hard-boiled eggs, chopped Optional
  • diced ham or cooked bacon Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and apple cider vinegar.
  3. Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and mix until well combined.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Fold in optional ingredients if desired.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

To store leftover macaroni salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, mix in a little more mayonnaise before serving.