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Bowl of classic macaroni salad with vegetables and hard-boiled egg garnished with paprika on a wooden table

Classic Macaroni Salad

This classic macaroni salad is a healthy twist on the beloved favorite, featuring a creamy fat-free dressing, crisp veggies, and tangy flavors. Perfect as a guilt-free side dish or easy summer picnic recipe!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup fat-free mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/3 cup chopped carrot
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 hard-boiled large egg, chopped
  • Dash paprika

Instructions
 

  • Cook the macaroni following the package directions. Once it’s al dente, drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
  • Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fat-free mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, sugar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, carrots, and onion.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
  • Before serving, garnish with the chopped egg and a dash of paprika for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

To customize this recipe, replace the mayonnaise with vegan options or plain Greek yogurt, and swap the macaroni for gluten-free or keto-friendly substitutes as desired!