The Best Traditional Macaroni Salad Recipe for Picnics and Potlucks
This old-time macaroni salad is the kind folks have been making in Appalachian kitchens for generations, using what was on hand and stretching it to feed a table full of family. It’s simple, creamy, and just a little sweet — the sort of side dish that showed up at Sunday dinners, reunions, and every summer get-together under the shade of the trees.
Made with tender macaroni, crisp celery, sweet relish, and a helping of mayonnaise, this macaroni salad is simple, honest food the way our grandparents liked it. The sugar and pimientos give it that familiar flavor you remember from church suppers and homecomings, and it only gets better after it’s had time to chill. If you’re looking for a true mountain classic that brings back memories of shared meals and well-worn recipes, this macaroni salad fits the bill.
How To Make Traditional Macaroni Salad
1. Start by boiling 4 quarts of water. Once the water comes to a boil, add in 1 lb of elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered 8-11 minutes until tender but firm, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Once pasta is al dente, drain in a strainer and add macaroni to a large bowl.
3. Add 1 small bell pepper (chopped), 1 cup of sweet relish, 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 Tablespoons of chopped pimientos, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 cup of chopped celery, and 4 Tablespoons of sugar to the macaroni. Stir well.
4. Let macaroni salad chill in the fridge overnight for the flavors to meld. Don’t forget this step and make sure to plan ahead for overnight chilling! Serve cold.
What To Serve Macaroni Salad With
This macaroni salad is an excellent side dish for fried chicken, pulled pork, or BBQ ribs. It is the perfect recipe for potlucks, summer BBQs, Easter dinner, or any homemade family meal shared around the dinner table.
Little Cooks Corner
This is an excellent recipe to enlist the help of your little ones. Once the macaroni is cooked, let your kiddos practice their fine motor skills by measuring, pouring, and mixing the ingredients. Little chefs can even assist in chopping the bell pepper and celery using a Montessori knife. Learn more about cooking with babies and toddlers here.
Feedback
Did you make this old fashioned macaroni salad? What did you serve it with? Let me know in the comments below!
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More Summer Side Dish Recipes
The Best Traditional Macaroni Salad Recipe For Picnics And Potlucks
Made with tender macaroni, crisp celery, sweet relish, and a helping of mayonnaise, this macaroni salad is simple, honest food the way our grandparents liked it.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup sweet relish
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp chopped pimientos
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 Tbsp sugar
Instructions
1. Start by boiling 4 quarts of water. Once the water comes to a boil, add in 1 lb of elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered 8-11 minutes until tender but firm, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Once pasta is al dente, drain in a strainer and add macaroni to a large bowl.
3. Add 1 small bell pepper (chopped), 1 cup of sweet relish, 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 Tablespoons of chopped pimientos, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 cup of chopped celery, and 4 Tablespoons of sugar to the macaroni. Stir well.
4. Let macaroni salad chill in the fridge overnight for the flavors to meld. Serve cold.
Notes
It is very important to let this macaroni salad chill overnight for the flavors to meld. Don't forget this step and plan ahead!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 317Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 686mgCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 5gSugar: 13gProtein: 5g
