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Classic Southern Macaroni Salad

Classic Southern Macaroni Salad

This Classic Southern Macaroni Salad is a creamy and tangy side dish, perfect for picnics and barbecues, made with elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty mayonnaise dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Fold in chopped celery, red bell pepper, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and sweet pickle relish.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Stir once more before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve chilled.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or substitute some mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier taste.