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Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad Recipe

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A classic old fashioned macaroni salad made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, cheddar cheese, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked macaroni (about 2 cups)

2 celery ribs, finely diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 red onion, finely diced

1/3 cup carrots, shredded

1 cup cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons sugar

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until tender.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain thoroughly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, and cubed cheese. Mix well.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Add chopped dill pickles or pickle relish for extra tang.

Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs for a more traditional version.

Substitute cheddar with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if preferred.

For a lighter version, replace part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If the salad becomes dry, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise before serving.

Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate.

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