This creamy and tangy Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe is the perfect side dish for any barbecue, picnic, or casual dinner. With crunchy vegetables and a sweet, zesty dressing, it’s a timeless favorite that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients for this Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe:
- 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup white sugar, or to taste
- ¼ cup distilled white vinegar
- 2 ½ tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- ¼ cup grated carrot (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pimento peppers (Optional)

Directions:
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (about 8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, distilled white vinegar, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, chopped celery, onion, green bell pepper, grated carrot (if using), and pimento peppers (if using) into the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to coat the vegetables and pasta evenly with the dressing.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe!
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Source: www.allrecipes.com