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A close-up of a bowl filled with Creamy Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Veggies, showing elbow macaroni coated in a creamy dressing with diced red bell peppers, green celery, and red onion.

Creamy Macaroni Salad with Crunchy Veggies

This creamy macaroni salad is packed with crunchy vegetables and a rich tangy dressing for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It is an easy make-ahead side dish that shines for gatherings and meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta salad
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup sweet pickles finely diced
  • 3/4 cup red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/3 cup celery thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup red onion finely diced
  • 2 large hard boiled eggs diced
For the dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add diced pickles, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and hard boiled eggs to the bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
  7. Stir the salad before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.

Notes

For the best taste, prepare the salad a few hours ahead so the dressing fully absorbs into the pasta.