A creamy, tangy macaroni salad with tender pasta and crisp vegetables, perfect as a comforting side dish for any occasion.
3 cups (300 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup (150 g) red bell pepper, finely diced
1 cup (150 g) cucumber, finely diced
1/2 cup (75 g) shredded carrots
1/2 cup (75 g) celery, finely chopped
1/3 cup (50 g) red onion, finely diced
1 cup (240 g) mayonnaise
1/4 cup (60 g) plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (12 g) sugar
1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
1/2 teaspoon (2 g) black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
2 hard-boiled eggs (100 g), chopped (optional)
1/4 cup (40 g) diced pickles (optional)
1 tablespoon (4 g) chopped parsley (optional)
Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Add cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir until evenly coated.
Fold in bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, celery, red onion, and optional additions.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cook pasta al dente for best texture.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for optimal flavor.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.