This classic American macaroni salad is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues, picnics, or potluck gatherings. With a creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and tender pasta, it strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet flavors that complement almost any main course. Make it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together for the best taste experience.
Techniques: boiling pasta, making emulsified dressing, dicing vegetables uniformly, folding ingredients
This macaroni salad comes together in just a few simple steps. The key is to cook the pasta properly and allow time for the flavors to develop in the refrigerator. Follow these instructions for a perfectly balanced, crowd-pleasing side dish.
For the best flavor, make this salad at least a few hours before serving. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to refresh it.