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Macaroni Salad for a Crowd

Creamy Macaroni Salad for a Crowd That Will Wow Your Guests

This Creamy Macaroni Salad for a Crowd is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Any short pasta like rotini can also be used.
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Mustard No substitutions needed here!
  • 2 stalks Celery Can use chopped cucumber for extra freshness.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Any color bell pepper works, or swap with shredded carrots.
  • 1 medium Onion Green onions or shallots can be used for milder taste.
  • 4 large Hard-Boiled Eggs Omit for vegan option or substitute with tofu.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste!
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to taste!
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup Diced Jalapeños For a spicy twist.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Herbs Such as dill or parsley.
  • to taste Hot Sauce To enhance flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Chop celery, bell peppers, onion, and hard-boiled eggs into small, bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni and chopped vegetables, ensuring everything is well mixed.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, gently folding to coat everything evenly.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, consider making the salad a day in advance to allow ingredients to blend together perfectly.

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