Hey there! If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss side dish that’s creamy, crunchy, and just the right size for a cozy get-together or a quick lunch, this Small Macaroni Salad is calling your name. Imagine tender little macaroni noodles swimming in a tangy, creamy dressing with crunchy veggies that add just the right pop. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer—simple, satisfying, and totally comforting!
Why You’ll Love Small Macaroni Salad
This salad is a total crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
Versatile: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weekday side.
Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients you probably already have.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, no fancy steps.
Customizable: Add your favorite extras like bacon, cheese, or herbs.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, crunchy, and just the right tang to satisfy everyone.
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Ingredients in Small Macaroni Salad
Here’s what makes this salad sing:
Macaroni pasta: Small, tender bites that soak up all the dressing.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base that brings it all together.
Mustard: Adds a tangy kick and depth of flavor.
Celery: Crunchy and fresh, a perfect contrast to the creamy dressing.
Red onion: Adds a bit of bite and color.
Carrots: Sweet crunch that brightens every forkful.
Vinegar: Balances richness with a touch of acidity.
Sugar: A hint of sweetness to round out flavors.
Salt and pepper: To bring everything into perfect harmony.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Small Macaroni Salad
Let’s get that salad ready!
Cook the Macaroni
Boil macaroni according to package directions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Prep the Veggies
Chop celery, red onion, and carrots into small, bite-sized pieces.
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Everything
In a large bowl, mix the cooled macaroni, chopped veggies, and dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill and Serve
Cover and chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 220
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Small Macaroni Salad
Here are some tasty serving ideas:
- As a side dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or burgers.
- In a picnic basket: Stays delicious chilled and travels well.
- On its own: A light and creamy lunch with some fresh fruit.
- Garnished with fresh herbs: Parsley or dill add a fresh finish.
Additional Tips
- Don’t overcook pasta: Keep it slightly firm to avoid mushiness.
- Customize your veggies: Try bell peppers, cucumbers, or peas.
- Make it lighter: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or a mix of both.
- Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A1: Sure! Small shapes like shells or rotini work great too.
Q2: How far ahead can I make this salad?
A2: It’s best made the day before for flavors to blend nicely.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
A3: Yes! Just use a dairy-free mayo alternative.
Q4: How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
A4: Drain pasta well and rinse under cold water before mixing.
Q5: Can I add cheese?
A5: Absolutely! Cubed cheddar or feta are delicious additions.
Q6: Is this salad gluten-free?
A6: Use gluten-free pasta to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Q7: Can I use fresh herbs?
A7: Yes, fresh dill, parsley, or chives add a lovely brightness.
Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q9: Can I freeze macaroni salad?
A9: It’s best enjoyed fresh; freezing can affect texture.
Q10: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A10: Use vegan mayo and omit any animal-based add-ins.
Conclusion
This Small Macaroni Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy—an easy, delicious classic you can whip up anytime. Whether you’re planning a simple lunch or adding a crowd-pleasing side to your meal, this salad has got you covered. Ready to toss up a batch and dig in? Let’s get to it!
Print
Small Macaroni Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic, creamy macaroni salad with crisp veggies and a tangy dressing, perfect as a side for picnics and barbecues.
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Add cooled macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option.
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs or shredded cheese for extra protein.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg