Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad

Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad

Recipe by John Mitzewich from allrecipes.com

Side Dish,Salad,Pasta 5 Hr.

Ingredients

12

12 servings

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or more to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon white sugar, or more to taste
  • 1 cup finely diced celery
  • 0.75 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated carrot
  • 0.5 cup chopped green onions, white and light parts
  • 0.25 cup diced jalapeno pepper
  • 0.25 cup diced poblano pepper
  • 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

Instructions

  • Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne together in a bowl until well blended. Whisk in sugar, then stir in celery, bell pepper, carrot, green onions, jalapeño pepper, and poblano pepper. Cover and refrigerate until macaroni is ready.
  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain but do not rinse.
  • Let macaroni drain in a colander for about 5 minutes, shaking out the moisture from time to time. Pour macaroni into a large bowl; toss to separate and let cool to room temperature, 10 to 15 minutes. Macaroni should be sticky.
  • Pour dressing over macaroni and stir until evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate until macaroni absorbs the dressing, at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.
  • Stir salad before serving. Mix water and remaining mayonnaise into salad for a fresher look.

Nutritional Facts

Per 12 servings

  • Calories: 295
  • Carbohydrate: 32g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sugar: 3g

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