Macaroni salad

Macaroni salad is a delightful cold pasta dish made with cooked elbow macaroni, typically mixed with creamy mayonnaise. It's a popular side dish for barbecues and picnics, and it pairs beautifully with fried chicken. The classic recipe often includes diced onions, pickles, celery, salt, and pepper, though many variations exist depending on the region.

In Australia and New Zealand, a similar dish known as pasta salad is made with cooked shell pasta and is commonly available in supermarket delis. In the Philippines, macaroni salad takes on a sweet profile, incorporating sweetened jellies, cheese, and fruits, making it a favored dessert during holidays and celebrations. Another popular variant, called chicken salad or chicken macaroni salad, includes shredded chicken.

In the United States, macaroni salad is a deli favorite, and in Hawaii, it is a staple in plate lunches. Puerto Rico adds its own twist by including ingredients such as mustard, canned tuna, Spam, onions, peppers, and pimentos. Each country or region contributes its unique flair to this classic dish, making macaroni salad a versatile and beloved staple worldwide.