Brighten up your summer gatherings with this refreshing and creamy Summer Macaroni Salad! Packed with tender elbow macaroni, crisp diced celery, sweet red bell peppers, and pops of fresh peas, this dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich, tangy dressing—made with mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar—coats every bite, while cubes of cheddar cheese and hard-boiled eggs add a satisfying touch of protein. Quick to prepare and even better after chilling, this classic crowd-pleaser is ideal for BBQs, picnics, or any warm-weather occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a light main, this macaroni salad is sure to be a hit!
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth.
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and stir until the pasta is well coated.
Gently fold in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, thawed peas, cubed cheddar cheese, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Calories |
2963 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 210.7 g | 270% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.3 g | 172% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 665 mg | 222% | |
| Sodium | 3281 mg | 143% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 223.5 g | 81% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.9 g | 35% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.4 g | ||
| Protein | 46.8 g | 94% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.2 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 225 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 421 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.