Description
Creamy Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
3 cups cooked macaroni
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup roasted corn
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup diced celery
1 tbsp fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper
Directions:
Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Add macaroni, roasted corn, red onion, celery, and cilantro. Toss until coated.
Chill and serve for a smoky flavor.
Roasted or fresh corn—what’s your preference? Comment below!
#CornMacaroniSalad
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect creamy macaroni salad every time.
- Cook 3 cups of dry macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables. Finely dice 1/4 cup each of red onion and celery. Chop 1 tbsp of fresh cilantro. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels from one ear.
- For roasted corn, heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they develop dark, smoky spots (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sour cream, and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Add the completely cooled macaroni, roasted (or fresh) corn, diced red onion, diced celery, and cilantro to the dressing.
- Gently toss everything together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a final stir and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a standout side dish at your next summer barbecue alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or chicken. It’s also perfect for picnics and potlucks. For a complete meal, top it with grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken to transform it into a hearty main course. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook and cool macaroni. Whisk mayo, sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Combine cooled pasta, roasted corn, red onion, celery, and cilantro with the dressing. Toss well, chill thoroughly, and serve cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Making it a day ahead is recommended, as chilling allows the flavors to develop fully. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
How long will leftover macaroni salad keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Give it a stir before serving again.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent 1:1 substitute for sour cream, adding a similar tang and creaminess.
My salad seems dry after chilling. What happened?
Pasta continues to absorb moisture. If it’s dry, simply stir in an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or a splash of milk to refresh the creaminess.
Is there a way to reduce the sharpness of the raw red onion?
Yes. Soak the diced red onion in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This mellows its pungent flavor significantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding warm pasta to the dressing: This will make the salad watery and cause the mayo to separate. Always ensure your macaroni is completely cool.
- Underseasoning the dressing: Season the dressing base aggressively, as the pasta and vegetables will dilute the flavor. Taste and adjust after mixing.
- Skipping the chill time: Serving immediately doesn’t allow the flavors to combine. Patience is key for the best taste and texture.
- Overcooking the pasta: Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture. Cook to al dente and rinse with cold water to halt cooking.
Conclusion
This Creamy Macaroni Salad, with its smoky roasted corn and fresh, crunchy vegetables, is a simple yet irresistible dish. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a perfect side that’s sure to become a staple at your gatherings. The make-ahead convenience and versatile serving options make it a true winner. Don’t forget to experiment with your corn preference and share your results!
