Easy 3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad – Creamy, Tangy & Delicious Summer Side Dish
Easy 3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad – Creamy, Tangy & Delicious Summer Side Dish | MagicInKitchen.com
3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad – Creamy, Tangy
Whip up this Easy 3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad for your next summer BBQ or picnic! Creamy, tangy, and ready in minutes, this simple recipe is a crowd-pleasing side dish everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Macaroni salad is a classic summer staple that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing for a picnic, or simply craving something quick and creamy, this Easy 3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Made with just pasta, mayonnaise, and pickle relish, it’s tangy, smooth, and comforting—a dish that proves simplicity is often the secret to deliciousness.
This no-fuss recipe is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to impress. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and easy to customize with add-ins if you’d like to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 3 cups elbow macaroni (cooked and cooled)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet pickle relish (or dill relish for a tangier flavor)
Optional Add-Ins: diced celery, red onion, shredded carrots, boiled eggs, or peas for extra texture and color.
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and pickle relish. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and mix well until the pasta is fully coated.
- Chill & serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
That’s it—just three steps to a creamy, tangy, and refreshing side dish!
Serving Suggestions
This simple macaroni salad pairs beautifully with almost anything. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or barbecue ribs for a hearty summer meal. It’s also great with sandwiches, fried fish, or as part of a picnic spread with fresh fruit and chips.
For presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, chopped parsley, or sliced green onions. If you’d like a heartier version, you can fold in extras like chopped hard-boiled eggs or diced ham.
Variations to Try
While the classic 3-ingredient version is perfect for simplicity, you can easily customize this macaroni salad to suit your taste. Add chopped celery, diced onions, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra crunch and flavor. If you prefer a protein boost, mix in diced ham, shredded chicken, or tuna to turn it into a more filling main dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
This salad is an excellent make-ahead recipe since it tastes even better after the flavors have time to meld. Prepare it the night before a BBQ or picnic and store it covered in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a quick stir and add a little extra mayo if needed to refresh the creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when chilled overnight. Just give it a stir before serving, and you may need to add a little extra mayo if it thickens.
How long does macaroni salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give the salad a lighter, tangier flavor while still keeping it creamy.
Conclusion
With only three ingredients and a handful of minutes, this Easy 3-Ingredient Macaroni Salad is the ultimate side dish for summer. Creamy, tangy, and endlessly customizable, it’s proof that simple recipes often bring the most joy.
Next time you need a quick side for your cookout, picnic, or weeknight dinner, whip up this macaroni salad and watch it disappear in no time!
For more quick and easy recipes like this, check out Magic in Kitchen and discover your next go-to dish.
