Classic Macaroni Salad

A Perfect Summer Side

Classic Macaroni Salad

With warm temps in abundance, that little tendency to grill and the desire to create something that tastes good, while also keeping the heat down indoors, provides the perfect timing for

Classic Macaroni Salad!

This quick and easy to make side doesn't have that very sweet taste you so often get from store bought Macaroni Salad. It's also a perfect 'make ahead' for barbecues or backyard cookouts. So,

Let's Try It!

Ingredients - serves a lot ;) :

• 1 lb. box of elbow macaroni
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 4-5 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley + a few sprigs for garnish (I like Italian parsley)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 c. mayonnaise ( I use cholesterol free mayo)
• 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard (adds a little kick)
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. celery salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground cayenne pepper (another little kick)
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• paprika (optional)
• 1 hard boiled egg (optional)
• 1 medium dill pickle chopped (optional)
• salt
• fresh ground black pepper

Preparation:

1. Cook the macaroni pasta al dente according to package directions. Once cooked, pour macaroni into a colander & rinse with cold water. While waiting on the water to reach a boil, you can prepare the other ingredients, so moving on.

2. Add a little 'crunch'. Chop the celery, the onion, the parsley and  pickle (if desired) & place into a bowl. Set aside.

3. For the macaroni dressing; in a small bowl whisk together the lemon juice, mayonnaise, mustard, celery salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder & about 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper (I like pepper, you may want to use less).

4. In a large serving bowl, combine the pasta with the celery, onion, parsley mixture & gently stir in the dressing to coat.
5. Add a little salt & fresh ground pepper to taste, giving the pasta mixture a few more gentle stirs.

6. Garnish with a sprinkling of paprika, sliced boiled egg (if desired) & a few sprigs of parsley. Doesn't that look delish!

note: If you make ahead & chill (and the salad should be covered & refrigerated if not serving immediately), it may dry out just a little. Not to worry, just add a drizzle of warm water, stir again, taste & serve!


This Classic Macaroni Salad makes a great side for grilled sausages, burgers, chicken, etc. And here's a great recipe for Grilled Italian Sausages with Peperonata to compliment your Classic Macaroni Salad

Enjoy! WildWSS outta here!