Macaroni Salad

Here’s a classic recipe for macaroni salad:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:
   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and pickles (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Optional Addition:
   • Gently fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, if using.
5. Chill:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the macaroni salad chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference for a creamier or less creamy salad.
• Add a bit of pickle juice to the dressing for extra tanginess.
• Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like shredded carrots, peas, or cooked bacon.

Enjoy your macaroni salad!