Macaroni Salad

1. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts water and 1 tbsp. salt to a boil. Add pasta and cook until tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain well and rinse with cold water.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Set aside.
3. Pour pasta into a large bowl. Add cheese, ham, eggs, bacon, celery, broccoli, pepper, and green onions. Stir to combine.
4. Add most of the salad dressing and toss until evenly coated, reserving a small amount to refresh the salad if it needed.

Recipe Notes

All components (including the dressing) can be assembled ahead of time such as the night before. Just toss everything together in a large bowl right before serving.

Trivia

1. In Australia and New Zealand, it is commonly known as pasta salad and is usually made with cooked shell pasta and purchased from supermarket delis.
2. In the Philippines, macaroni salad has a mildly sweet flavor. Chicken is more often used in the dish. It is served in parties and gatherings.
3. In Hawaii, macaroni salad is a popular staple in plate lunches.
4. In Puerto Rico, macaroni salad may contain mayonnaise, mustard, canned tuna or bits of SPAM, onions, Cubanelle peppers and pimentos.