Classic Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 6 oz cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 red onion, finely minced
- 4 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Prepare the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, ensuring it retains a bit of firmness. Quickly rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Drain thoroughly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cubed cheddar cheese, minced red onion, diced celery, diced red bell pepper, and frozen peas. Toss these ingredients together.
- Make the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, chopped dill, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to cool.
Serve this refreshing macaroni salad as a delightful side at your next gathering or enjoy it as a standalone meal on a warm day!