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4-Ingredient Macaroni Salad

A simple and delicious macaroni salad perfect for gatherings and picnics, made with just four main ingredients.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni Cook until just past al dente.
  • 1 cup finely diced celery Set aside after dicing.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Adjust based on taste preference.
  • 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper To taste.
  • 2–4 tablespoons cold water or milk Optional, to loosen dressing if too thick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just past al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Cool completely.
  2. Dice the celery finely and set aside.
Mixing
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper. If the dressing is thick, add cold water or milk to loosen it.
  2. Combine the cooled macaroni and diced celery with the dressing, folding gently to coat everything well.
Chilling
  1. Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.

Notes

Make sure to cool the macaroni completely before mixing to avoid a mushy salad. You can customize by adding bell peppers, pickles, or hard-boiled eggs. Adjust mayonnaise for creaminess to taste.