Shelly's Recipe

COOL AND CREAMY MACARONI SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

Salt
1 lb elbow macaroni
1/2 small red onion, minced
1 rib celery, minced
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley leaves
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/8 tsp garlic powder
Pinch cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
Ground black pepper

Bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add 1 tbsp salt and macaroni and cook until nearly tender, about 5 minutes. Drain in colander and rinse with cold water until cool, then drain briefly so that macaroni remains moist. Transfer to large bowl.

Stir in onion, celery, parsley, lemon juice, mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne, and let sit until flavors are absorbed, about 2 minutes. Add mayonnaise and let sit until salad texture is no longer watery, 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve. (The salad can be covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Check consistency and seasonings before serving.) Serves 8 to 10