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Creamy Ditalini Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables and Hard Boiled Eggs Recipe

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3.9 from 15 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 14 servings

Description

This classic macaroni salad is a delicious and creamy side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks. Made with tender ditalini pasta, crisp vegetables, tangy pickles, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing combining mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of sugar, it’s a refreshing and satisfying salad that pairs well with a variety of meals.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 pound ditalini pasta (or elbow macaroni pasta)
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped sweet pickles
  • 3 hard boiled eggs, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Paprika (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander, rinse under cold water to cool, and drain well. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Set aside to fully cool.
  2. Combine Vegetables and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red bell pepper, celery, red onion, sweet pickles, and chopped hard boiled eggs. Mix gently to combine.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
  4. Mix Salad: When the pasta is completely cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables and eggs. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Chill Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Ensure pasta is well rinsed and cooled completely to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Adjust the sugar to your taste preference for sweetness in the dressing.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika before serving for color and added flavor.
  • This salad is best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature before serving if preferred.
  • For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/creamy-ditalini-pasta-salad-with-fresh-vegetables-and-hard-boiled-eggs-recipe/