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Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that embodies the essence of summer. Its vibrant blend of flavors and textures makes it an appealing choice for a variety of occasions, from festive barbecues to casual picnics and family gatherings. This refreshing salad not only serves as a perfect side dish but can also stand alone as a light meal, making it a versatile addition to any menu.

Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad

Discover the perfect summer dish with this Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad! Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, it features elbow macaroni, sweet corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and celery, all coated in a creamy dressing. Easy to prepare, this refreshing salad is ideal for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. Customize it to your taste with options for protein or herbs. Make it ahead of time for a delightful side or light meal that everyone will love!
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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 black pepper, to taste

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

1/2 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the macaroni is cooking, take this time to chop the vegetables. Dice the red bell pepper into small pieces, finely chop the red onion, and dice the celery into uniform pieces. If you’re using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob to yield about a cup.

      Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if desired.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, sweet corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and diced celery. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated and well-mixed.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes, letting the flavors intermingle. Prior to serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If desired, sprinkle the top with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and a light dusting of paprika for visual appeal.

            Enjoy: Serve this vibrant Sweet Corn Macaroni Salad as a delightful side dish at barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. This salad is best enjoyed when chilled, and it can easily be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days!

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