Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad – This old-fashioned macaroni salad recipe is a classic side dish that is perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick and easy side dish for a potluck, this macaroni salad is sure to impress. The combination of tender macaroni noodles, hard-boiled eggs, and crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing, is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep.

My family and I love this old-fashioned macaroni salad recipe, and it has become a staple in our household. I still remember the first time I made this recipe – I was looking for a dish to bring to a family gathering, and my mother-in-law suggested I try her favorite macaroni salad recipe. It was love at first bite! Since then, I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it always gets rave reviews from my family and friends. I love how easy it is to customize – sometimes I’ll add extra veggies or swap out the mustard for a different spice. But no matter how I make it, this old-fashioned macaroni salad is always a hit!

Why This Recipe Rocks?

This old-fashioned macaroni salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

Creamy and tangy dressing: The combination of real mayonnaise, prepared yellow mustard, and seasonings makes for a delicious and tangy dressing that perfectly coats the macaroni noodles and vegetables.
Easy to customize: This recipe is super versatile and can be customized to your taste. Add more veggies, swap out the mustard for a different spice, or add some protein to make it a complete meal!

Simple to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

454 grams (1 lb.) elbow macaroni
240 grams (1 cup) real mayonnaise

3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
75 grams (1/2 cup) diced celery

2 green onions, thinly sliced and divided
15 ml (1 tablespoon) prepared yellow mustard (optional)

15 ml (1 tablespoon) white vinegar
7.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) onion powder

2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) salt
1.25 ml (1/4 teaspoon) black pepper

Directions:

Cook the elbow macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse with cold water and drain completely.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni noodles, chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced celery, and all but 1 tsp. of the sliced green onions. Mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the real mayonnaise, prepared yellow mustard (if using), white vinegar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Pour the dressing over the macaroni salad and mix well to combine.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 4 hours or overnight for full flavor.

Before serving, sprinkle the remaining sliced green onions on top of the macaroni salad.

Notes:

For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

You can add in other ingredients to customize the recipe to your liking, such as diced pickles or red bell peppers.
Make sure to completely cool the macaroni before mixing in the other ingredients to prevent the mayonnaise from melting.

This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to fit your needs.

In conclusion, this Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad Recipe is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and delicious. With its creamy mayonnaise dressing, boiled eggs, and crisp vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light lunch, this macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, give this Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad Recipe a try!

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but macaroni is the traditional choice for this salad.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or with sour cream for a tangier flavor.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add in other ingredients to customize the recipe to your liking, such as diced pickles or red bell peppers.

How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.