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Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad: A Southern Comfort Classic

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy delight filled with fresh veggies, perfect for gatherings and easily customizable.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Swap for gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard For a milder flavor, use yellow mustard.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used instead.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Feel free to reduce or omit for a less sweet profile.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup celery Cucumbers can be used as a lighter option.
  • 1 cup green bell pepper Substitute red or yellow peppers for a sweeter flavor.
  • 1/2 cup red onion Green onions can be a milder option.
For Seasoning
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain in a colander and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside while you chop the vegetables.
  3. Finely dice the celery, green bell pepper, and red onion into uniform pieces, ensuring they are small enough to mix seamlessly into the salad.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooled macaroni into the diced vegetables. Pour the creamy dressing over and gently toss to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Customize flavors by adding extra apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if desired.

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