The Best Deli-Style Macaroni Salad You'll Ever Make | Food Wishes

mayonnaise

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with fewer calories.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat elbow macaroni

Whole wheat pasta is more nutritious.

Start by making the dressing: combine full fat mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons dijon mustard, plain white distilled vinegar, a shake of cayenne pepper, freshly ground black pepper, salt, and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl; whisk to mix.

Finely dice a bunch of celery, grate some carrot, and chop scallions; add these to the dressing along with diced red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and jalapeno pepper; mix well and refrigerate.

Cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni in generously salted boiling water until fully cooked; drain well and do not rinse.

Transfer the drained macaroni to a large mixing bowl; toss occasionally with a spatula until cooled to room temperature.

Once cooled, add the dressing to the macaroni; mix thoroughly but do not taste yet.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

After chilling, mix the salad again; add a small spoon of mayonnaise and a tablespoon or two of cold water to freshen it up, then mix again.

Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary; transfer to a serving container and garnish with green onions if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens