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Mac Salad Recipe
Nancy

Mac Salad Recipe

Creamy, tangy, and perfectly chilled, this mac salad is a classic side dish that everyone loves. It's great for picnics, BBQs, or even weeknight dinners. The creamy dressing combined with crunchy veggies and tender pasta gives this dish the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it's super easy to make ahead of time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Salad
Calories: 390
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb. elbow pasta – Go for classic elbow pasta for the best texture. Cook until just tender al dente.
  • 1 cup celery diced – Use fresh celery for a satisfying crunch.
  • 1 cup carrots diced – Adds color, sweetness, and a nice crisp bite.
  • 2 cups mayonnaise – Full-fat mayo works best for a rich and creamy dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the tangy flavors with a hint of sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar – Gives the salad its signature tang.
  • 1 shallot grated – Adds mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • 1/2 cup milk – Thins out the dressing to make it easier to coat the pasta evenly.
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped – For garnish and fresh flavor at the end.

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing your creamy dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, vinegar, grated shallot, and milk. Whisk until smooth and fully blended. Once combined, cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld while you prep the rest.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Avoid overcooking, as soft pasta won’t hold up well in the salad. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
  3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the chilled dressing and stir until the pasta is well coated. Add in the diced carrots and celery, mixing them in evenly. The crunch from the veggies pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta and adds freshness.
  4. Once everything is mixed together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the mac salad for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results. Right before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh pop of flavor and a little extra color.