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Sweet Tangy Macaroni Mix

A nostalgic blend of creamy textures and balanced sweet-tart flavor, this traditional macaroni salad is a beloved addition to any gathering table. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or family feasts, its velvety dressing and crisp vegetable additions make it an enduring classic.
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Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Sweet Tangy Macaroni Mix
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
  • 2 cups dry elbow-shaped pasta
  • 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup celery finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped sweet onion
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper diced small (optional for texture and hue)
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3 hard-cooked eggs peeled and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
  • 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook until fully tender, approximately 7 to 9 minutes. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
  • In a sizable bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sugar, white vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sweet relish. Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
  • To the prepared dressing, add the cooled pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, minced celery, diced onion, and optional red bell pepper. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold the ingredients together delicately until every element is evenly coated.
  • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Stir gently before presenting for service.