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    Home / Side Dish / Classic Macaroni Salad

    Classic Macaroni Salad

    Tender macaroni is tossed with a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables for a classic cookout and picnic side dish.

    ⏱ 15 minPrep time
    🔥 10 minCook time
    🍽 8Servings
    🏷 Side DishCategory
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    Macaroni salad became a popular American side dish in the early to mid-20th century as pasta became widely available and affordable, offering a hearty alternative to potato salad at picnics and cookouts. It remains especially beloved in Hawaii, where it’s a defining component of the classic plate lunch.

    Creamy, tangy, and a picnic table favorite

    Tender macaroni is tossed with a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables for a classic cookout and picnic side dish.

    Step by stepInstructions

    1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until tender, then drain and cool.
    2. Whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
    3. Combine the macaroni, celery, onion, and bell pepper in a large bowl.
    4. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat.
    5. Season with salt and pepper.
    6. Chill for at least 1 hour, garnish with paprika, and serve.

    💡 Chef tips & storage

    Rinsing the cooked macaroni under cold water stops the cooking and prevents it from turning mushy in the salad. The salad tastes best after chilling for a few hours, once the flavors meld.

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    Recipe details

    Prep15 min
    Cook10 min
    Servings8
    CategorySide Dish
    PublishedAugust 12, 2026
    Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

    Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

    Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →

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