Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic macaroni salad like you'd get at a deli, but less sweet. This crowd-pleaser is full of colorful veggies and a perfect side for picnics or cookouts.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Calories: 295 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon white sugar, or more to taste
• 1 cup finely diced celery
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 cup white vinegar
• 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 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

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Stir salad before serving. Mix water and remaining mayonnaise into salad for a fresher look.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.