Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Summertime Macaroni Salad is a classic, creamy side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. With its chilled pasta, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. Easy to make ahead and customize, it’s a crowd-pleaser that belongs on every summer table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
mayonnaise
sour cream
apple cider vinegar
Dijon mustard
sugar
celery
red bell pepper
red onion
carrot
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional for garnish)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.

Fold in chopped celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and grated carrot. Mix until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Sprinkle with paprika just before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
Add diced hard-boiled eggs or shredded cheese for extra protein.
Mix in peas, corn, or chopped pickles for additional flavor and texture.
Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the dressing and vegetables may change.

FAQs

Can I make macaroni salad the day before?

Yes, it’s actually better after it sits for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

How do I keep macaroni from getting mushy?

Cook it al dente and rinse with cold water immediately to stop the cooking process.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, small shells or rotini work well too.

Is macaroni salad served cold?

Yes, it’s traditionally served chilled for best flavor and texture.

Can I add meat to this salad?

Yes, diced ham, chicken, or tuna can make it a heartier dish.

What if the salad dries out in the fridge?

Stir in a bit more mayo or a splash of milk to refresh the texture.

How long can it sit out at a picnic?

No more than 2 hours without refrigeration.

What veggies work best?

Crisp, colorful vegetables like celery, bell peppers, onions, and carrots add the best crunch and flavor.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Yes, just chop vegetables finely and go easy on strong-flavored onions.

Can I make it vegan?

Use vegan mayo and skip dairy to make it plant-based.

Conclusion

Summertime Macaroni Salad is a vibrant, creamy dish that brings comfort and flavor to any outdoor meal. Its simple prep, refreshing taste, and versatility make it a go-to favorite for warm-weather gatherings. Whip up a batch and enjoy a nostalgic bite of summer!