Description
Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad is a vibrant and creamy side dish that combines al dente elbow macaroni with a tangy and slightly sweet mayonnaise-based dressing. Enhanced by fresh vegetables like shredded carrots, red bell pepper, and celery, and brightened with apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, this salad is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine macaroni and dressing: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly with the dressing.
- Add vegetables and herbs: Fold in the sweet pickle relish, shredded carrots, finely chopped red bell pepper, celery, and fresh parsley. Mix well to distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the salad.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- Cook macaroni to al dente to prevent mushiness in the final salad.
- Rinsing pasta with cold water stops cooking and prevents clumping.
- Feel free to add diced cooked chicken, ham, or boiled eggs for a protein boost.
- Substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Chill properly for the best taste and texture; flavors intensify after resting.
- Customize the vegetables by adding cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or green peas.
- Season pasta water generously with salt to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Guy Fieri macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, American pasta salad, picnic side dish, macaroni salad recipe
