Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad

Name: Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 250 g macaroni / elbow pasta; 1 cup celery; 3/4 cup red capsicum / bell peppers; 3/4 cup green onions; 1 medium carrot; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup yoghurt or sour cream; 1 tbsp cider vinegar; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsp sugar; 3/4 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 tbsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

This classic creamy macaroni salad is the ultimate side dish for your next BBQ or family gathering. Packed with crunchy vegetables and a tangy, velvety dressing, it's a simple yet satisfying recipe that tastes even better the next day.

Servings6 Portions

Prep Time15 Mins

Cook Time10 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

macaroni / elbow pasta
250 g
celery
1 cup
red capsicum / bell peppers
0.8 cup
green onions
0.8 cup
medium carrot
1
mayonnaise
0.5 cup
yoghurt or sour cream
0.5 cup
cider vinegar
1 tbsp
Dijon mustard
2 tsp
sugar
2 tsp
garlic powder
0.8 tsp
salt
0.5 tbsp
black pepper
0.5 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bring a large pot of water (about 4 to 5 liters) to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt followed by the macaroni, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, yogurt (or sour cream), cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and grated carrot.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.