This is absolutely, positively, the best macaroni salad you will ever make. It's tangy but sweet, with a creamy dressing, crisp vegetables and wonderful seasonings. Many people swear that it has to be prepared with Miracle Whip, but that's up to you.
2 c. uncooked elbow macaroni
3 large hard boiled eggs, chopped plus 1 sliced for serving, if desired
1 c. diced onion
3 stalks celery, chopped
1 c. diced red bell pepper
3 T. sweet pickle relish
2 c. mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
3 T. prepared yellow mustard
3/4 c. white sugar (or less as desired)
2 1/4 t. apple cider vinegar
1/4 t. salt
3/4 t. celery seed (or celery salt)
Bring a pot of well salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni; cook 8 minutes, until al dente; do not overcook. Drain; set aside to cool, but do not rinse.
In a large bowl, combine macaroni, eggs, onion, celery and red bell pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickle relish, mustard, sugar, vinegar, salt and celery seed. Pour the dressing over the salad; toss to coat. Cover.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve, garnished with sliced hard boiled eggs, if desired.
12 servings.