Classic Macaroni Salad

Chef John’s Classic Macaroni Salad is a timeless dish that perfectly complements everything from smoky barbecued ribs to a simple hot dog. With a creamy, tangy dressing and vibrant, fresh vegetables, this macaroni salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or a casual family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni salad is packed with flavor and texture, thanks to its creamy dressing, crispy vegetables, and tender pasta. The combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and a touch of heat from the jalapeño and poblano peppers creates a deliciously balanced sauce. With a bit of time in the fridge, the macaroni absorbs all the flavors, becoming even better the longer it sits. It’s a must-have side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal, especially during the warmer months.

Ingredients

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (Optional)

• ¼ cup white vinegar

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or more to taste

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 tablespoon white sugar, or more to taste

• 1 cup finely diced celery

• ¾ cup diced red bell pepper

• ½ cup grated carrot

• ½ cup chopped green onions, white and light parts

• ¼ cup diced jalapeño pepper

• ¼ cup diced poblano pepper

For the macaroni:

• 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni

• 1 tablespoon water (Optional)

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (Optional)

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and sugar until smooth and well blended.

2. Stir in the diced celery, red bell pepper, grated carrot, green onions, jalapeño pepper, and poblano pepper. Cover and refrigerate the dressing while the macaroni cooks.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 8 minutes, until tender but firm to the bite. Drain the pasta but do not rinse.

4. Let the macaroni drain in a colander for about 5 minutes, shaking it occasionally to release excess moisture. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl and let it cool to room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. The macaroni should feel slightly sticky.

5. Pour the prepared dressing over the macaroni and toss until evenly coated.

6. Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, if possible. Stir the salad before serving.

7. If desired, mix in a tablespoon of water and an additional tablespoon of mayonnaise just before serving to refresh the salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Additional Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (for refrigeration)

• Total Time: 5 hours

Variations

• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken to make this macaroni salad a heartier dish.

• Make it spicy: Add more diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian options: Add extra vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, or bell peppers to increase the crunch and color.

• Herb-infused: Try adding chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad gets better the longer it sits, as the flavors continue to develop.

• Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it has been sitting for a while.

FAQs

How can I make this macaroni salad healthier?

To make it healthier, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative. You could also add more vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients.

Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?

Yes, this macaroni salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, it’s best if you let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors develop.

How long will macaroni salad last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure the pasta is bite-sized.

Can I skip the jalapeños if I don’t want spice?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder salad, feel free to omit the jalapeños and poblano peppers.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian. If you want to make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of diced ones?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but ensure that they are finely diced to maintain the texture of the salad.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard if you prefer a milder taste, or use spicy brown mustard for a bit more flavor.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze macaroni salad as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change when thawed.

How can I make this salad creamier?

For a creamier macaroni salad, simply increase the amount of mayonnaise or add a tablespoon of sour cream to the dressing.

Conclusion

Chef John’s Classic Macaroni Salad is a flavorful, creamy side dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a crowd favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside grilled meats or just as a snack on its own, this macaroni salad is sure to impress.