Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Resting Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins
For best texture, be sure the macaroni is well drained and fully cooled before adding the dressing so it doesn’t become watery or over-absorb the sauce; you can cook the pasta a minute past al dente if you prefer a softer, deli-style salad. The salad will thicken as it chills, so if it seems a bit dry before serving, loosen it with 1–2 tablespoons of milk or mayonnaise. This recipe holds well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it ideal for make-ahead gatherings—just keep it well covered and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours for food safety. Adjust sweetness, tang (vinegar), and crunch (vegetables) to your taste, and dice the vegetables finely so every bite has a balanced mix of flavors.