This classic macaroni salad blends tender ring macaroni with crisp, fresh vegetables like celery, cucumber, and grated carrots. A creamy, tangy dressing enhanced with a hint of nutmeg adds a unique twist to the familiar side dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or weeknight meals, this version stands out for its texture and sweet-savory balance. The handwritten recipe reflects mid-century Americana home cooking, emphasizing ease, pantry staples, and crowd-pleasing flavor.
Ingredients
- 7 oz ring macaroni (cooked)
- ½ cup onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup celery (chopped, about 1 small stalk)
- 1 cup cucumber (unpeeled, diced)
- 1 cup carrots (grated)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup salad dressing (e.g., Miracle Whip or mayo)
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Macaroni
- Boil ring macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Let cool.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
- Finely chop onion and celery. Dice the unpeeled cucumber and grate the carrots.
Step 3: Make Dressing
- In a bowl, mix salad dressing, sugar, vinegar, salt, and nutmeg until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Combine
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled macaroni with the chopped vegetables. Pour dressing over the mixture.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Mix thoroughly. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor. Serve cold.
Tips
- Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor
- Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color
- Substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly tangier dressing
- Use sweet onion if you prefer a milder onion flavor
- Add a pinch of paprika or celery seed for classic retro flair
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the macaroni
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on preferred sweetness
- Peel the cucumber if you want a smoother texture
- Double the dressing if serving the next day (pasta absorbs moisture)
Nutrition
Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 260mgFiber: 2.5gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 2400IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.3mg
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