Southern Macaroni Salad is your go-to side dish for any gathering. It’s simple to prepare, can be made in advance, and is packed with classic flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or a backyard barbecue, this salad is the ideal accompaniment.

• Cuisine: Southern
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a stress-free make-ahead dish that allows you to focus on other meal prep.
• Full of familiar flavors from creamy mayonnaise to crunchy vegetables.
• Perfectly complements grilled meats and other summer staples.
• Easy to scale up for larger gatherings.

Ingredients

• 6 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni pasta: Forms the base; cooks quickly. Substitute with ditalini if preferred.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: Provides creamy richness. Light mayo works as a lower-fat option.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds tang and balances flavors; can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
• 2 tablespoons white sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to offset the vinegar’s acidity.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Imparts a zesty flavor, typical for Southern salads.
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch. Substitute with chopped sweet pickles.
• ½ teaspoon minced, pressed, or grated fresh garlic: Infuses aromatic depth.
• 1 sweet onion, diced: Provides a mild crunch and sweetness.
• 2 cups chopped celery: Gives a refreshing crunch and earthy tone.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
• 3 hard boiled eggs, chopped: Boosts protein and texture, adding classic richness.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herby finish.

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and ensure the pasta is cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, pickle relish, and garlic in a small bowl until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and well combined, balancing sweet and tangy notes perfectly.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with diced onion, celery, bell pepper, chopped eggs, and parsley. This mix creates a colorful and varied texture, enhancing every bite of the salad.

Step 4: Add Dressing

Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mix. Toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated, ensuring each bite is flavorful and creamy.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. Chilling allows flavors to meld and ensures a refreshing, cold side dish.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! It’s best made a few hours ahead or even the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for sweet pickle relish?

If you’re out of sweet pickle relish, finely chopped sweet or dill pickles are a great alternative.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this macaroni salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.