As summer bids farewell, there's no better way to celebrate the season than with a refreshing dish that captures the essence of sunshine and gatherings: Amish End of Summer Macaroni Salad. This delightful recipe is not just a side dish; it's a creamy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying experience that will have your taste buds dancing! With its vibrant colors and a medley of flavors, this macaroni salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any family gathering. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Amish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and tender but not mushy.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool down the macaroni.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped celery, diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and sweet pickle relish. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the vegetable and mayonnaise mixture, gently folding to ensure all pasta is evenly coated.
- Season the macaroni salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
- Before serving, give the macaroni salad a gentle stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve cold as a side dish.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente—this will ensure it remains firm and doesn't become mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Chill Time: Allowing the macaroni salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour is key. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh vegetables. Crisp celery, colorful bell peppers, and sweet pickles will add crunch and flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as diced hard-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Taste Test: Before serving, always give your salad a taste. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
