American Macaroni Salad
This recipe guides you through creating a classic American Macaroni Salad. It combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with crisp celery, mild red onion, and fresh parsley, all coated in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish, ideal for picnics or casual meals, delivering a comforting and familiar flavor profile.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For cooking macaroni
- 1 Colander For draining macaroni
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For combining salad ingredients
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For whisking dressing
- 1 Whisk For emulsifying dressing
Ingredients
Main
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni cooked, rinsed, and drained
- 1/3 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup minced red onion soaked in cold water for 5 minutes, drained
- 1 tablespoon minced flat-leaf parsley
- 1/2 cup diced vine-ripened tomato optional
- 1/2 cup prepared mayonnaise
- 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, celery, onion, parsley and tomato, if using. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, vinegar, sour cream and salt. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve. Store covered in the refrigerator, for up to 3 days.
Notes
1. Achieving the perfect texture for macaroni is crucial; cook it al dente to prevent mushiness in the salad. Rinsing immediately with cold water halts the cooking process and removes excess starch, ensuring distinct, non-sticky pasta.
2. Soaking the red onion significantly mellows its pungency, preventing it from overpowering the other delicate flavors. For an extra layer of brightness, a tiny pinch of finely minced chives can be added along with the parsley.
3. Always taste and adjust the dressing before combining with the salad. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory is key. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer, for flavors to fully meld.
2. Soaking the red onion significantly mellows its pungency, preventing it from overpowering the other delicate flavors. For an extra layer of brightness, a tiny pinch of finely minced chives can be added along with the parsley.
3. Always taste and adjust the dressing before combining with the salad. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory is key. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer, for flavors to fully meld.