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Macaroni salad has long been a staple at summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues, celebrated for its creamy texture and satisfying heartiness. This versatile dish can serve as a side or a main feature, offering a delightful combination of flavors that can be customized to suit any palate. Among the many variations of this classic recipe, Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad stands out, not only for its vibrant appearance but also for its refreshing taste that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer.

Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad

Discover the joy of summer with this delicious Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish. Featuring colorful ingredients like sweet corn, red bell pepper, and crispy celery, each bite is a burst of flavor. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a crowd-pleaser that's easy to customize for any dietary preference. This salad not only looks vibrant but also celebrates the essence of summer in every serving. Try it out for your next gathering!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup celery, diced

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

1/2 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, prepare the veggies. Dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and dice the celery. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sweet corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and diced celery. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently until everything is well coated.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley and a light dusting of paprika for color.

            Enjoy: Serve this flavorful Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. It's best enjoyed chilled and can be made a day ahead for convenience!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 6-8 servings