This macaroni salad is the ultimate side dish for any occasion! With its creamy dressing made from Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, combined with crunchy veggies, it’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a simple family dinner. After trying store-bought versions for so long, we decided to create our own—and it turned out to be the best macaroni salad ever! Fresh, flavorful, and easy to make, it will quickly become your go-to recipe for a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. Elbow Macaroni
- ½ Red Onion, chopped
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 Carrot, finely diced
- ¾ cup Mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
- 1 tbsp. Spicy Dijon Mustard
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni:
Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water, then transfer to a large bowl and allow it to cool completely. - Prepare the Veggies:
While the pasta cools, chop the red onion, green and red bell peppers, parsley, and dice the carrot into small pieces. Set aside. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and spicy Dijon mustard until smooth. - Combine the Ingredients:
Add the chopped vegetables to the cooled macaroni. Pour the mayonnaise-mustard dressing over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well coated. - Chill and Serve:
Cover the macaroni salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni salad makes a fantastic side dish for:
- Grilled meats like burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ ribs.
- Fried or roasted chicken.
- Vegetarian dishes like roasted veggies or grilled corn.
It’s also great on its own for a light lunch!
Conclusion
This is hands down the best macaroni salad recipe ever! It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick side dish for a family meal, this refreshing macaroni salad will always impress. Make it ahead, chill it, and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness with every bite!
