Small macaroni salad. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, a reminder of summer picnics, and a surprisingly versatile addition to any meal. I remember my grandmother making it for every family gathering, and the subtle variations in each batch were always a fun surprise. Now, I’m sharing my own perfected version, a small macaroni salad that’s both classic and craveable. It’s the kind of recipe that disappears quickly, leaving everyone wanting more!
Table of Contents
Why this small macaroni salad recipe? Because everyone deserves a simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying side that comes together in minutes!
Why You Will Love This small macaroni salad Recipe
This small macaroni salad isn’t just another recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser! It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet, making it an irresistible addition to any barbecue, potluck, or weeknight dinner.
What sets this recipe apart? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. No fancy techniques or hard to find ingredients required. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your preference.
I wanted to create a small macaroni salad recipe that was comforting, reliable and easy enough for even busy weeknights. This dish offers big flavor with minimal effort! It’s pure, unadulterated comfort food.
Follow us on Pinterest for even more quick and easy recipe ideas!
Ingredients Needed for This small macaroni salad Recipe
- For the Salad:
How to Make This small macaroni salad Recipe
- 1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also prevent the macaroni from sticking together.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Add the cooked macaroni, celery, red onion, green bell pepper, hard boiled eggs (if using), and sweet pickle relish (if using) to the dressing.
- 4. Gently stir until all ingredients are well combined and the macaroni is evenly coated with the dressing.
- 5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Give it a good stir before serving. This chilling time is crucial because it allows the macaroni to fully absorb the flavors of the dressing, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious salad. This also gives you time to throw together a Dense Bean Salad Recipe to go with it.
- 6. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more milk if you prefer a creamier consistency.
How to Serve This small macaroni salad Recipe
This small macaroni salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, or even as a light lunch on its own. You can also serve it alongside sandwiches or wraps for a complete meal but don’t forget the refreshing Heart Shaped Caprese Salad.
For a fancier presentation, try serving it in individual ramekins or small bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or some fresh parsley for a pop of color.
How to Store This small macaroni salad Recipe
Store leftover small macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will keep for up to 3 to 5 days, but it tastes best within the first 2 to 3 days. Keep in mind, the macaroni may absorb some of the dressing over time, so you may need to add a little extra milk or mayonnaise before serving.
Freezing is not recommended as the mayonnaise can separate and the macaroni can become mushy upon thawing.
Tips to Make This small macaroni salad Recipe
- Don’t overcook the macaroni. It should be cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft and mushy in the salad.
- Make sure to rinse the macaroni with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and milk to your personal preference. Some people prefer a thicker, creamier salad, while others prefer a lighter consistency.
- For a tangier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit more apple cider vinegar.
Helpful Notes for This small macaroni salad Recipe
- The type of mayonnaise you use will greatly affect the overall flavor of the salad. I recommend using a good quality mayonnaise for the best taste.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Diced carrots, bell peppers (any color), or even some chopped pickles can add a nice crunch and flavor.
- If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or even lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
- You can use any type of small pasta for this salad, such as ditalini or small shells, if you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand.
Variation of This small macaroni salad Recipe
- Seafood small macaroni salad: Add cooked shrimp, crabmeat, or tuna for a seafood twist.
- Spicy small macaroni salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Ham small macaroni salad: Add diced ham for a more substantial and flavorful salad. This is great for using up leftover ham from the holidays.
- Vegetarian small macaroni salad: Add extra vegetables, such as diced cucumbers, tomatoes, or even some chickpeas for added protein and fiber. Feel free to adapt all of my recipes found at Www.makourirecipes.com to match your own dietary needs.
How long does small macaroni salad last in the fridge?
Small macaroni salad typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
What is the best mayonnaise to use for small macaroni salad?
The best mayonnaise for small macaroni salad is a matter of personal preference. However, many people prefer a full-fat mayonnaise for its richer flavor and creamier texture or a lighter mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining a good flavor.
Can I add protein to small macaroni salad?
Yes, you can absolutely add protein to small macaroni salad to make it a more substantial meal. Popular additions include diced ham, shredded chicken, or hard-boiled eggs, adding both flavor and nutritional value.
What are good additions to flavor small macaroni salad?
Beyond the basics, you can add finely chopped celery, bell peppers, or red onion for crunch and flavor. Experimenting with herbs like dill or parsley, or a dash of vinegar or mustard, can also elevate your small macaroni salad.
