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Classic Southern Macaroni Salad

Classic Southern Macaroni Salad

A creamy and tangy Southern favorite, this Classic Southern Macaroni Salad combines tender macaroni with a flavorful mix of vegetables and a rich mayonnaise dressing, perfect for picnics and barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir until well coated.
  4. Fold in celery, red bell pepper, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and sweet pickle relish gently.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad again and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans on top just before serving. This salad tastes best when chilled overnight.